National hero: Hedgehunter returns to rapturous reception after Aintree win

IT was a homecoming fit for a champion.

With bookies still smarting after Hedgehunter’s storming Grand National win, the Willie Mullins-trained nine-year-old was the toast of Leopardstown yesterday where he paraded before an adoring and grateful public.

However, the real celebrations kicked off when the stiff but otherwise healthy champion arrived home to the Lord Bagenal bar and restaurant in Leighlinbridge, Carlow, yesterday evening.