The British Horseracing Board yesterday announced contingency plans for Ascot's televised meeting on Friday.

They have given the go-ahead for a five-race all-steeplechase card as the hurdles course is currently reported the wetter of the two tracks.

The Victor Chandler Chase has already been carried forward and a further chase is now offered to provide the option of a card with five races over fences.

The new contest will be the Durham Ranger Handicap Chase, over an extended two miles and three furlongs. If the weather relents, Ascot will stage an eight-race fixture.

The BBC will show the 2.40, 3.10 and 3.40 races live.