Key info and expert advice for the racing on the eve of Royal Ascot

The wait for Royal Ascot is almost over and five meetings provide punting opportunities to bolster the betting banks before the five-day summer showpiece begins.

The Gordon Elliott-trained Barra, who has placed at two Cheltenham Festivals, is perhaps the most well-known name to grace the turf on Monday in the 2m4f handicap chase (8.30) at Kilbeggan.

Half an hour earlier the talented Willie Mullins-trained Brahma Bull flexes his muscles in the 2m4f novice chase (8.00) in a bid to preserve his unbeaten record over fences.

Elsewhere in Britain, it is handicaps galore in the afternoon with Flat racing at Carlisle and Catterick, while Windsor and Nottingham – after passing a morning inspection – supply the evening action.

Going report

Carlisle (first race at: 2.00)
Good to soft, good in places (GoingStick 6.7 on Monday at 6.30am)

Catterick (2.15)
Soft

Windsor (5.40)
Good to soft (GoingStick 6.8 on Monday 6.30am)

Nottingham (5.50)
Heavy, soft in places (Inspection passed)

Kilbeggan (6.00)
Good

Market movers

4.15 Catterick Victoriano 4-1 (from 6)
4.30 Carlisle Milton Road 13-2 (from 17-2)
4.45 Catterick Lucky Number 5-1 (from 15-2)
7.00 Kilbeggan Ahgetawayoutadat 9-2 (from 7)
7.40 Windsor Diamond Dougal 9-1 (from 12)
8.00 Kilbeggan Brahma Bull 4-5 (from 10-11)

What to back

Our experts provide their best bets for Royal Ascot.

What to read

David Menuisier is 'on top of the world' after five winners in a memorable seven days for the yard.

What to watch

Richard Spencer has issued an upbeat bulletin on his Commonwealth Cup hope Rumble Inthejungle.

The best of Racing Post Sport

The Racing Post Sport panel with the best bets for the opening day of Premier League fixtures.

Final thought

Epsom Derby hero Masar is clearly going to be a big player in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot on Saturday but do not underestimate his stablemate Ghaiyyath. The son of Dubawi's third to Waldgeist in the Prix Ganay is readily forgiven with improvement likely upped to 1m4f for the first time.

For the freshest betting advice, based on latest going and market conditions, don't miss the Live Tipster every afternoon. Just click Raceday Live at racingpost.com or the mobile app