An inspection has been called at Cheltenham Festival for Wednesday morning as the inner cross-country track has been sodden by heavy rainfall.

A Jockey Club statement read: “Following 6mm of rainfall overnight, which is a significant change from the 2mm-4mm initially forecast, and with a further 4mm-6mm forecast today (Tuesday 12th March), there will now be an inspection on the Cross-Country course at 8am tomorrow (Wednesday 13th March).

“The Cross-Country course is currently waterlogged in places.

“In the unfortunate event that the Cross-Country course fails tomorrow’s inspection, we are working alongside the BHA on a contingency plan for the Glenfarclas Cross-Country Chase to be run on Friday 15th March, Gold Cup Day.

“We will keep everyone informed as and when decisions have been made.

“The Old and New Course have taken the rain well and the Going is now Soft, Heavy in Places.”

The cross-country track is separate to the main race course.