Le Coudray new National top-weight

LE COUDRAY is the new top-weight for the John Smith’s Grand National after 85 horses were confirmed at yesterday’s five-day stage for Saturday’s Aintree spectacular.

The 11-year-old, trained by Christy Roche, is left carrying 11st 12lb as the weights have been raised 3lb following the expected absence of Grey Abbey and Sir Rembrandt.

First Gold is next in the handicap for the world’s greatest steeplechase on 11st 11lb, though Francois Doumen’s gelding also holds an entry in Thursday’s Betfair Bowl over the Mildmay fences.