Aussie jockey returns to England

Australian jockey Craig Williams starts a four-week stint back in England today at Leicester nine months after his well-publicised split with Mick Channon.

Williams, who arrived in England on Monday and is currently based at James Fanshawe’s stable in Newmarket, partners Spritzeria for William Haggas in the First Leisure Handicap at the Midlands track.

The jockey had previously spent the best part of two successful seasons in this country riding 43 winners in 2000 and 27 last term.

‘‘He’s back in action tomorrow at Leicester and before that he’s riding work in Newmarket for James Fanshawe,’’ his agent Ian Wardle said.

While over here, Williams will ride for the Rest of the World jockeys’ team against Great Britain & Ireland in the Blue Square Shergar Cup at Ascot on Saturday week.

‘‘He’s looking forward to it, he enjoys it over here. I hope he gets a few chances,’’ added Wardle.

Have saddle will travel all over the world has been Williams’ motto for after leaving Britain last autumn, he has been to Dubai, Hong Kong, Mauritius, Australia and back to Mauritius before returning to Britain.

And he is not done yet as he has been granted another three-month contract in Hong Kong starting in September.