Talking Horses: Ferry can master Scottish National rivals at Ayr

Minella Drama can strike in the Grade Two Jordan Electrics Ltd Future Champion Novices’ Chase

West Cork defied a 631-day layoff to win the Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham in November and can now land the Scottish Champion Hurdle.  Picture: Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images

Having had to settle for minor honours last year, The Ferry Master may be able to come out on top in the Coral Scottish Grand National.

Sandy Thompson’s charge ran a fine race to finish fourth, beaten seven and a half lengths, in the marathon contest as a novice chaser and will return to Ayr off a 5lb lower mark.