Diamond Days returned to the racecourse at Lingfield on Tuesday afternoon, finishing sixth of nine runners in the 2m Class 5 Handicap Hurdle under Freddie Gingell.

Although the result wasn't quite what we'd hoped for, there were some encouraging moments from our six-year-old, particularly following his unfortunate tumble at Plumpton just a week earlier.

Returning to hurdles after parting company with Brendan Powell early in his previous outing, Diamond Days was partnered this time by Freddie Gingell, who took over riding duties for his latest appearance. With Freddie in the saddle, Diamond Days was quickly into his stride, taking up the running and setting the pace at the head of the field.

He looked to be enjoying himself out in front, jumping his hurdles well and maintaining his advantage through much of the race. It was certainly a more encouraging sight for Coral Racing Club members after last week's disappointment. As the field approached the third-last hurdle, Diamond Days was joined at the front by Play On Court, with the pair beginning to come under pressure as the runners behind them closed in.

Unfortunately, our boy couldn't maintain his early momentum and was headed approaching the second-last hurdle. From there, he began to weaken and gradually dropped out of contention as the eventual winner, Dotties Star, made his move through the field. Dotties Star, trained by Pat Phelan and ridden by Sean Houlihan, went on to secure the victory by three and three-quarter lengths from Foinix, partnered by Coral Racing Club ambassador Sean Bowen. Raffles Nobu completed in the first three while Diamond Days crossed the line in sixth, 19 lengths behind the winner.

Following the race, Freddie reported that Diamond Days had been hanging and admitted he was disappointed with the performance, suggesting it may be back to the drawing board.

WATCH: Freddie Gingell discuss Diamond Days' Lingfield run

However, with last week's experience at Plumpton still fresh in our minds, there were certainly positives to take from his return. His jumping was encouraging and he showed plenty of enthusiasm in the early stages, giving members something to cheer about as he led the field.

It wasn't the finish we were hoping for but racing doesn't always go to plan and there is still plenty to learn about how to get the best out of Diamond Days.

We'll catch up with trainer Joe Tizzard for his thoughts on the run and to hear what might be next for our six-year-old.