Thornton all set for Sunday return

Andrew Thornton makes his return to the saddle on Sunday after eight months on the sidelines.

The Gold Cup-winning jockey fell from Soulard in February, dislocating his shoulder and tearing ligaments and muscles, making his recuperation more complicated.

“I’m coming back on Sunday at Uttoxeter with two rides, one for Evan Williams and the other for Robert and Sally Alner,” said Thornton.

“It’s been hard work. I’ve been having physio four or five days a week for the last five months and it’s been pretty intensive stuff.

“I’ve been riding out for about a month now for Robert and Sally and lots of other people.

“Getting the weight off has been the hardest part, I’ve lived a normal life for the past few months. I’ve nearly enjoyed it too much!

“When you get up to 12st the hunger still has to be in the belly to get it down again and it still is so we’ll keep cracking on.

“It’s all about to swing into action now so I couldn’t be returning at a better time.”