Royal stands National ground

Ante-post favourite Clan Royal and Racing Post Chase hero Innox are among 122 contenders remaining after the first forfeit stage for the John Smith’s Grand National.

The two leading fancies – the principal horses from a powerful 11-strong JP McManus contingent – go forward for the £700,000 (€1m) race at Aintree on April 8, where a maximum field of 40 will face the starter.