Glasker Mill leads over the last fence.

mill on festival trail

Henrietta Knight's long-term plan for Glasker Mill started to come together when the seven-year-old landed the Crown Racing First For Service Beginners' Chase at Fontwell.

The Wantage handler has had the Royal & SunAlliance Chase in mind for the chasing debutant since he was injured at owner Trevor Hemmings' home during the summer.

Despite having his first start for 293 days, the Timmy Murphy-ridden 3-1 shot quickened in good style after jumping to the lead over the last for a snug three-and-a-half-length call over Dancing Bay.

Knight said: "He was late coming back to us and the trip (two miles two furlongs) would have been short enough, but he is a tough horse and a good jumper.

"He is really a three-miler and the SunAlliance has always been the plan. He goes on any ground, but is probably better on decent ground.

"I would like him to run one more time before Cheltenham to gain some more experience."