Hedgehunter bids for National double

Hedgehunter and Royal Auclair, the first two home in last year’s John Smith’s Grand National, head a maximum field of 40 declared at the final 48-hour stage for the Aintree spectacular.

The Willie Mullins-trained Hedgehunter, who romped home by 14 lengths in the hands of Ruby Walsh 12 months ago, bids to become the first horse since the legendary Red Rum in 1974 to land back-to-back victories in the world’s greatest steeplechase.

Sir Rembrandt was ruled out this morning after an 11th-hour setback, while Eurotrek, Ollie Magern and Ground Ball were expected withdrawals.

However, Spot Thedifference, who would have made the cut, was not declared by Irish trainer Enda Bolger.

Martin Todhunter’s Just In Debt, ninth last year, scrapes in as number 40.

The four reserves are Lord Atterbury, Knife Edge, Philson Run and Montayral.