Further rain expected to fall but hopes high for Welsh National

An inspection has been called for 7.30am but Chepstow officials are very hopeful the track will be able to stage the 2017 Coral Welsh Grand National in 2017.

Some recent runnings of the biggest race in Wales have been delayed until the following month, and with considerable rain and then wintry showers forecast to fall on ground already described as heavy, soft in places, an inspection was always likely to be called.

Clerk of the course Keith Ottesen said: "The rain and showers are supposed to clear up in the early hours and if we get that respite before racing I think we'll be fine.

"I was pleasantly surprised when I walked it today. We could take in the range of another 10mm to 15mm of rain; so as long as the rain stops when it's meant to stop I would be confident."

Chepstow received a total of 19mm of rain on Monday evening but Wednesday is due to be mainly dry with a high of 4C.

Members can read the latest exclusive interviews, news analysis and comment available from 6pm daily on racingpost.com