TIM Vaughan's Our Guardian Angel, ridden by Richard Johnson, can get punters off on a winning start at Cartmel's John Smith's Summer Barbeque meeting today (Thursday).

The six-year-old has finished in the frame on each of its two appearances this season and will be a warm order to get its head in front in this contest.

Stagecoach Pearl in the beginners' chase that follow at 2.30 has been runner-up in its last three outings.

A series of near-misses should end, however, with the assistance of Tony McCoy from the saddle.

Another local trainer, Martin Todhunter from Orton, has a strong candidate for the 3.40 handicap chase with Western Gale.

Two recent thirds suggest that Todhunter's charge is on an upward curve and he looks worthy of each-way support.

Cartmel's own Jimmy Moffatt has a good chance with Duty Free in Aspell's capable hands for the 4.15pm maiden hurdle.