Ascot on Purple agenda

Deep Purple is likely to bid for a five-timer in the Mitie Kennel Gate Novices’ Hurdle at Ascot on Friday.

Trainer Evan Williams has earmarked the Grade Two event as a suitable race in which to test his charge’s credentials against some smart opposition.

Williams said: “I’d like to think we’ll go to Ascot and they give a lovely dry forecast up to the race.

“He has been a revelation and he hasn’t run for a few weeks but I’ve just been looking at the other novices that have played their hands.

“I haven’t been in a rush with him but I think Ascot will suit him and it looks like the right race.

“It’s a step up in class again after his Listed win, but we have a great deal of belief in the horse and he has a lot of belief himself.

“He seems to be quietly improving and it’s a great position to be in as a trainer.”