Pimpernel still sidelined

Plans remain on hold for Elusive Pimpernel following the setback he suffered at the start of the month.

John Dunlop’s exciting colt was a hugely impressive winner of the Craven Stakes on his seasonal reappearance followed by a creditable fifth in the 2000 Guineas.

A problem meant he was forced to miss the Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly at the last minute and Dunlop’s racing secretary Marcus Hosgood is unable to put a date on his likely return.

“There are no real plans for him at the moment and it is unlikely that we will see him again until the autumn at least,” said Hosgood.

“He has suffered a setback, but I don’t wish to say too much at this stage.”