Royal set for hurdles spin

Clan Royal is set for a second run over hurdles as he continues his build-up to a third crack at the John Smith’s Grand National.

The 11-year-old, trained by Jonjo O’Neill, looked desperately unlucky in the Aintree spectacular last April, being carried out by a loose horse when leading at Bechers on the second circuit.

He had his first run since then when fifth in a handicap hurdle over an extended two and three-quarter miles at Exeter seven weeks ago.

“He’ll run somewhere in the next fortnight. It will be over hurdles. He’s in good form,” said Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus.

“We’ll take it from there and just see how he gets on. Jonjo’s very happy with him.”

Clan Royal, runner-up to Amberleigh House two years ago, is 9-1 favourite for the world’s greatest steeplechase with totesport.