Kevin Darley, who has recently moved from his long-time base at Sheriff Hutton to Boroughbridge, travels even further this evening when he takes in a 'night-shift' at Kempton's new all-weather track.

The former champion jockey has good prospects of winning aboard Velvet Heights in the kempton.co.uk Handicap over two miles, the final race on the card.

Trained by John Dunlop, it is significant that Velvet Heights has been kept in harness for a third campaign by her Arundel handler, who presumably believes there is more to come from her in staying events.

Velvet Heights proved pretty consistent towards the end of last season and, although this will be her first experience of Kempton's Polytrack surface, she is fancied to start the new term on a winning note - and provide Darley with some reward for his long journey south.

Redeye Special is an interesting runner in the Racing UK Handicap.

Michael Bell's charge has won both his races to date, the latest coming on this course when he got on top near the finish to beat Ivory Lace by a neck.

That contest was over seven furlongs and the step-up to a mile tonight should be in his favour as he bids to complete a hat-trick of wins under champion jockey, Jamie Spencer.

Frankie Dettori looks a significant booking for Beaver Patrol in the Kempton For Conferences Handicap.

Fulke Johnson-Houghton's charge is an able performer on his day, as he proved on his final start last season when he finished a good third to Zowington at Newbury.

Although he lacks a preparatory run this season, Beaver Patrol is fancied to be fit enough to do himself justice, if the booking of Dettori is any guide.

Racing selctions

TODAY

Catterick

Selected race: 4.25 Saif Sareea (Nap)

Kempton

Selected races: 8.24 Redeye Special, 8.52 Beaver Patrol, 9.20 Velvet Heights.

TOMORROW

Beverley

Selected races: 2.50 Dispol Veleta, 3.20 Sir Gerard.

Updated: 10:54 Wednesday, April 26, 2006