Last season’s Grand National hero Amberleigh House couldn’t make it a winning return to action at Aintree yesterday but trainer Ginger McCain was more than happy with his performance.

GOLD Cup winning jockey Jim Culloty will not be without a ride in the Martell Cognac Grand National – despite the shock news that ante-post favourite Timbera misses the race.

SUPREME GLORY is on course for Saturday’s Red Square Vodka Gold Cup at Haydock, trainer Pat Murphy confirmed yesterday.

With a record 67 horses in the handicap proper this year, the Martell Cognac Grand National looks set to be an even more competitive event than usual.