The Queen’s Vase has been dominated by Aidan O’Brien in recent seasons, but it’s a race in which Mark Johnston also has a fine record, having won seven renewals between 2001 and 2014, and his Dancing King looks a cracking each-way bet today.

He won the same Haydock handicap 11 days ago that Johnston’s 2006 winner of this, Soapy Danger, had won off a 3lbs lower mark, and that looks a really strong piece of form, as he gave weight and a beating to his highly-progressive stablemate Kondo Isami, who is prominent in the market for the King George V tomorrow.

His first five runs came on the All-Weather, but he has shown a real liking for fast turf in his last two starts and comes here a progressive, battle-hardened and classy young stayer.  His experience is a big plus and though the favourite Wordsworth is greatly respected, I think plenty of his other rivals have questions to answer, either due to the ground or trip.

3.05pm Royal Ascot – 1pt each-way Dancing King @ 8-1 4 places (all firms, except Skybet 15/2 5 places, William Hill 15/2 5 places)