THE Ascot Heath fixture on Saturday provided a consolation victory for trainer Ed Dunlop, who had hoped for success during the Royal meeting.

Dunlop earned two thirds and a fourth from eight runners at the Royal meeting and saddled Winter Romance to justify favouritism by a short head in the Ladbroke Handicap on Saturday.

Winter Romance thrives in soft ground and may be a contender for the Magnet Cup at York.

"Ever since he won the Tote Silver Trophy at Haydock he's not had this ground. I know he only just got up but he's stayed a mile and a quarter well," said a delighted Dunlop afterwards.