'The interest in Ascot is through the roof' - course chief highlights royal meeting's importance to Britain as well as racing

The Derby and a brilliant royal meeting should act as a strong reminder to the British government of the importance of horseracing, according to Ascot's director of racing and public affairs Nick Smith. 

With the sport suffering due to the impact of affordability checks, delays over levy reform and the ongoing threat presented by a gambling tax consultation, Smith pointed to two of British racing's crown jewels to push its case at Westminister.

The sport is all too aware it is fighting for its financial future, with the BHA hosting politicians from both major political parties each day of the royal meeting in order to highlight racing's significance, not just to the economy but as a vehicle for Britain's soft-power influence.