House beaten in National prep

Amberleigh House was well beaten over hurdles at Hereford in his last public appearance before the John Smith’s Grand National.

The 14-year-old, winner of the world’s greatest steeplechase in 2004, trailed in behind the 14-1 winner Witness Time in the Fownhope Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle.

However, trainer Ginger McCain was “quite happy” with the performance.

Speaking from his Cholmondeley base, he said: “We’re quite happy, no complaints. Donald (his son) said the old boy cocked his ears and just started to stay on again.

“That was just grand and was exactly what we wanted. He probably needs five miles these days but with good ground and 30 Aintree fences in front of him he won’t run badly.

“He enjoyed himself, pricked his ears and stayed on at the end. They were quite happy with him at the track and I was quite satisfied so we are one step further forward.”