Taunton calls inspection as possible overnight rain threatens Thursday card

Three meetings have been lost in Britain this week and a fourth could be in danger on Thursday as Taunton has called a 7.30am inspection.

The track is currently heavy and raceable but the possibility of more rain could cause problems. Clerk of the course Jason Loosemore said: "Forecasters are saying anything from seven to 15mm. We're perfectly raceable now but the maximum would be the concern.

"It may not be the end of us but we need to ensure if we get the upper end of the forecast we'll be okay."

Taunton: lost most recent fixture to the weatherCredit: Alan Crowhurst / Getty Images

Taunton lost its fixture on February 18 due to Storm Dennis, but recent drier weather has offered hope the meeting will go ahead.

"Today is a lovely morning, it's cooler with a fresh breeze and sunny intervals which will help us," said Loosemore. "It looks dry up until 8pm and then a front moves through and it will take us through until the morning."

He added: "This week we've had 24mm and we actually handle weather quite well here, but there is always a tipping point and we reached it last time – hopefully we won't tomorrow."

The feature race on the card is the 2m7f handicap chase, while Eritage could run in the novice hurdle for the in-form Paul Nicholls and Harry Cobden combination.

A 7am inspection is also set to take place at Ludlow, while the situation at Clonmel is being monitored.

Click here to view Thursday's cards

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