Pipe duo given Aintree taster

David Pipe took the tried-and-tested approach with his two John Smith’s Grand National hopes by schooling Puntal and Celtic Son over some purpose-built Aintree-style fences.

Tom Scudamore, recently announced as Pipe’s stable jockey, was on board Puntal, with Rodi Greene partnering the David Johnson-owned Celtic Son.

“They popped some National fences this morning,” said Pipe. “We usually build some every year and just give them a go.

“This will be Puntal’s third time in the race I think and he remains on target for it.

“Celtic Son might get entered in the three-mile handicap chase as well.

“But I think the intention is probably to run both – but we’ll decide closer to the time.

“We just have those two for the race.”

The Pond House squad would have been three-strong but for the sad loss of Little Brick, who was well-backed for the event but was fatally injured at Cheltenham.

“Little Brick would have been there with a great chance but I’m afraid that happens in racing,” rued Pipe.