PRESSURES and restrictions caused by the foot and mouth crisis have caused Brightwells Auctioneers to combine the Malvern Bloodstock Sale, which was due to take place on May 29, with the Ascot Derby Sale on June 5.

All the original Malvern entries are being transferred to Ascot and the sale will also incorporate the pre Sale Show for Store Horses.

Andrew Elliott, Brightwells' bloodstock manager, said: "We believe the combined sale is the most sensible course of action given the current circumstances and are confident that the joint catalogue will provide an excellent selection of horses to suit all requirements."