Newcastle clerk optimistic despite call for second inspection

This afternoon's meeting at Newcastle is subject to a second course inspection at 11am.

Officials at Gosforth Park called an impromptu check at 9am after overnight temperatures surprisingly dropped to -3.5C.

Although clerk of the course James Armstrong remains hopeful, a second inspection is required later in the morning.

Armstrong said: "I'm sure we'll be fine by racing time, but I'm not committing just yet.

"Temperatures have crept above freezing and the sun is shining."