WANTAGE trainer Henry Candy has declined to be drawn into the controversy over Harry Bentley losing the ride on star sprinter Limato.

Owner Paul Jacobs has opted for a change of jockey on the dual Group 1 winner after the disappointment of his trip to Dubai when he finished tenth in the Al Quoz Sprint at Meydan.

Jacobs put the five-year-old’s below-par showing down to cloud seeding by the Emirates state, claiming it was responsible for the rain, which produced unsuitable yielding going for his fast-ground lover.

And, although attaching no blame to Bentley, he believes Limato – who returned with pulled muscles – may remember the episode if the rider was to continue the partnership.

Now James Doyle has been lined up to replace Bentley, who has ridden the gelding for the last year, winning the Group 1 July Cup at Newmarket and the Prix de la Foret at Chantilly.

Candy said: “It’s a matter between Harry and Mr Jacobs and I wouldn’t like to comment.

“I believe Mr Jacobs has spoken to James Doyle’s agent and that is as far as it’s got.”

Bentley commented: “I’m not going to lie, it’s a massive setback for me and I’m incredibly disappointed to have lost that ride.”

Meanwhile, Candy reported that Limato was back in good form on the gallops.

The Kingston Warren handler plans to run the gelding in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 24 ahead of the defence of his July Cup crown at Newmarket on July 15.

Elsewhere, Blewbury trainer Eve Johnson Houghton landed a 77-1 across-the-card double with Becca Campbell (12-1) at Lingfield and Toulson (5-1) at Nottingham.

Edward Greatrex got Becca Campbell home by half a length in a mile and a quarter handicap at the Surrey venue, while Charlie Bishop was on board as Toulson landed a similar contest by a length and three-quarters up in the Midlands.

East Ilsley trainer Hughie Morrison posted a 126-1 double at Leicester with seven-furlong handicap winners Private Mission (15-2) and Pursuing Steed (14-1).

And Mick Channon’s West Ilsley yard was also among the winners with Harrison at Chelmsford and Neola at Nottingham.