ROBERT THORNTON, nicknamed "Chocolate" by his weighing room colleagues, has a couple of particularly sweet-looking rides at Ascot.

His most solid chance is aboard Gola Cher (2.10), who stands out a mile in the Michael Hatt Memorial Novices' Hurdle, having created a hugely favourable impression when scoring with a ton in hand on his British debut at Stratford.

Richard Johnson was in the saddle that day, but he has opted to go to Exeter, paving the way for Thornton to prove he can hold his nerve on the big occasion.

If things are going Thornton's way, Wise Reflection (1.35) could have easily initiated a double for the promising young rider and trainer Alan King by taking the preceding Sony Novices' Handicap Chase.

Although Wise Reflection probably hasn't got such strong claims as Gola Cher, the selection might still take some pegging back, provided King has him spot-on for his comeback outing.

Formerly in the care of Josh Gifford, Wise Reflection has already won at the course over hurdles, but most paddock observers agree his long-term future has always been in the chasing sphere.

Johnson's decision to travel to Exeter will have been influenced by Behrajan's participation in the Tripleprint Novices' Chase.

Behrajan (1.55) bolted up on his fencing debut at Wetherby and is widely regarded as one of the most exciting novice chasers currently in training.

Red Caf (12.40) represents one of the best opportunities for making a profit on a typically busy afternoon at Southwell.

The David Evans-trained daughter of Perugino recorded back-to-back victories at Ayr and Brighton prior to demonstrating her ability to handle the sand by finishing fourth over an inadequate nine furlongs at Wolverhampton a week ago.

l Locally-trained Kit Smartie returned from a 938-day absence to claim the feature event at Sedgefield yesterday, the W.A.Stephenson Memorial Novices' Chase.

Owned and trained by the Redworth Permit Holder Don Forster, Kit Smartie put in a magnificent round of jumping in the hands of Richard Guest. "The reason for his long absence was a hoof infection which then spread up into his tendon sheath," said his jubilant winning handler