No winning comeback but future is bright as Cobden returns from neck injury

There was no fairytale return to the saddle for Harry Cobden on his first ride since sustaining a serious neck injury in June after Truckers Lodge could finish only fourth behind Francky Du Berlais in the 2m4f handicap hurdle.

Cobden took a heavy fall from Mick Thonic at Market Rasen almost four months ago and, although at first thought there was no major problem, it was later diagnosed as a fractured C2 vertebrae in his neck.

However, the jockey who will be riding as Paul Nicholls' number one this winter, said: "It's generally good to return after so long a layoff and now I need to get back into the swing of riding a few winners as everything seems fine now. Truckers Lodge ran well but a mistake three out didn't help his chance.