Weather hits Ascot meeting

Ascot’s showpiece meeting tomorrow, featuring the BGC Long Walk Hurdle, has been abandoned due to a frozen track.

Friday’s fixture was also called off due to freezing temperatures and even though an initial inspection was called for 4.30pm, conditions showed no sign of improvement which gave clerk of the course Chris Stickels an easy decision.

“We’ve abandoned I’m afraid,” said Stickels.

“The track is frozen in places and has a light covering of snow.

“The temperature is currently minus 3C and falling, and there is no prospect of it warming up.

“I’ve had no word yet if any of the races will be saved.”