THE fate of the two-day meeting that was to be the crowning glory of Salis-bury Racecourse's season is hanging in the balance.

Torrential rain left the Netherhampton track completely waterlogged ahead of its prestigious 'Ascot' fixture - the richest and most high profile event ever seen at the venue.

Officials are anxiously awaiting the outcome of an inspection due to be held at 8am this morning (Thursday).

Landing the right to host an Ascot meeting, while the royal course undergoes refurbishment was a major coup for Salisbury.

But Sunday night's cruelly-timed deluge, which saw three inches of rainfall, has left the track with a slim chance of being able to go ahead with Friday and Saturday's top-notch cards.

Nerves are in shreds at the Racecourse, where preparations have long been underway to welcome the cream of racing's elite and get the course in the shape of its life.

An unprecedented four races per day are scheduled to be broadcast live on the BBC.

Jockey championship rivals Kieren Fallon and Frankie Dettori are among those due to lock horns. Both have lined up alternative rides should Salisbury fail.

Early indications are not encouraging. General manager and clerk of the course Jeremy Martin said: "Parts of the track are no better than they were on Sunday.

"We are hoping for the best but I think it will take a minor miracle to turn it around now."

He explained that the chalk ground at the track is renowned for its good drainage but a busy season's racing has left the ground struggling to cope.

Martin added: "There is a chance that the second day could still go ahead, but if we are in any doubt about safety, we have to cancel."

Should racing proceed, punters can look forward to two tremendous days with more than £250,000 prizemoney up for grabs. The highlight of Friday's six-race programme is the £40,000 Group Three Autumn Stakes. Saturday's main attraction is the KJ Pike & Sons Cornwallis Stakes.