Main Desire has shown enough to be a Royal Ascot contender

There was no mistaking the regard in which Michael Bell holds Marygate winner Main Desire, and she looks one to take seriously at Royal Ascot.

Her speed was on display at Nottingham on debut when lowering the course record, and while conditions were much slower at York on Friday, she still needed to have enough pace to challenge. It was pleasing that she possesses enough class and versatility to handle softer ground.

She beat the right horse in Neola, who like the winner had been victorious at Nottingham, with the pair coming clear of the field.