Nigel Farage’s Reform UK received a surprise endorsement today, at the esteemed surrounding of Ascot racecourse.

The Express can reveal that no less than the Duke of Malborough, one of Britain’s most senior toffs, has now endorsed the insurgent right-wing party.

The boost for Nigel Farage came as yet another poll showed Reform UK overtaking the Conservatives in the polls.

The Duke, who is the great nephew of Sir Winston Churchill and related to Princess Diana’s family, didn’t wear his political endorsement publicly, however.

Instead, the Duke donned the bright teal Reform UK rosette on the inside of his Ascot morning suit.

The Duke, who is a personal friend of Nigel Farage’s, explained that despite his racecourse discretion he is proud to support Reform UK.

The Express understands he said: “I’m voting for Reform UK because I won’t vote for Keir Starmer, for obvious reasons, and there’s no point voting for the Tories because they aren’t going to be back for ten or 15 years, if ever.

“Nigel Farage is doing the best job any man can do for his country and he is the only person who can stop this country being dragged into another war.”

Taking to his personal Instagram profile, the Duke also endorsed Reform UK to his closest friends, warning: “A vote for Conservatives is a vote for Labour – it’s Nigel Farage time.

“Vote Reform.”

The Duke further endorsed Mr Farage as an “extraordinary public speaker.

“He doesn’t need notes or an autocue. There is no other politician who comes close.

“I believe, if he is given a chance to serve his country, he could end up in the same league as Randolph and Winston.”

A poll for the i this evening suggested Reform UK is on course for an ‘earth-shattering’ result as it draws parallel with Mr Sunak on 19%.

Meanwhile a RedfieldWilton poll said Reform is now on 19%, 1 point ahead of the Conservatives on 18%.