PAUL NICHOLLS has opted to strike while the iron is hot by taking Albuhera (1.45) to Ascot just four days after winning in a canter at Cheltenham on Tuesday, writes Colin Woods.

Albuhera was carrying the nap vote that day and, having seemingly expended very little energy, the decision to turn out for this afternoon's meaty £40,000 Tote Showcase Hurdle comes as no surprise.

Jockey Joe Tizzard implored Nicholls immediately after the Prestbury Park contest to allow the fast-improving five-year-old to take his chance.

"Joe said straight after the race we should give Ascot a go and while the horse is enjoying himself I am inclined to agree," explained Paul. Owner David Jackson, a staunch supporter of both codes who has had many a good horse trained in the North East, clearly feels the same way about Albuhera, a listed class performer in his former guise as a more-than-useful ten-furlong campaigner on the level when with Mark Johnston.

Mention must also be made of the other big race at the Berkshire course, the £35,000 United House Handicap Chase.

Opposing Martin Pipe in similarly high-profile chases has proved to be fruitless exercise throughout the past decade and the west country maestro appears to be in business once again with Golden Alpha (2.15).

Owned by Pipe's principal patron, David Johnson, Golden Alpha peeled off his first four races last term.