Bud back for more Becher success

SEAMUS Murphy is looking forward to seeing his pride and joy Hello Bud take to Aintree’s famous Grand National fences once again as he bids for successive victories in the Betfred Becher Chase today.

As well as landing this Listed prize 12 months ago, the 13-year-old also finished fifth in the race in 2009 and fifth in the 2010 Grand National itself.

The Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained veteran warmed up for a return to Merseyside with a creditable fifth in the Badger Ales Trophy, and owner Seamus Murphy reports the gelding to be in excellent order ahead of his latest assignment.