Becher Chase scorer ASHTOWN LAD is an obvious leading contender to complete a second win over the Grand National fences this season, having stayed on strongly over the 3m2f trip in December. 6lb higher and dropped in the distance, there is a compelling argument that he can go close, as a strong-travelling individual over these unique fences.

FINAL ORDERS has been a success story for us all season, having bagged a couple of handicap chases, prior to an excellent fifth at the Cheltenham Festival. Despite being a small type, his jumping technique has impressed over the larger obstacles and he could go well for a long way if taking to this test. Final Orders could still have a notch of improvement in him, with the unique fences providing the chance to display his excellent jumping ability.

In what appears a thoroughly competitive Grade 1 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle, MAXIMILIAN rates a logical each-way selection. He beat the reopposing Stay Away Fay by a length at Doncaster in January. That runner has since gone on to land the Grade 1 Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle, in impressive style – that was a hard race and it may be tough to follow up.

Maximilian arrives here as a fresh horse, with trainer Donald McCain noting that he would head straight to Aintree after that Doncaster triumph. He’s a promising type who may have scope for further improvement, offering sound each-way hopes, especially if the ground is on the quicker side of good.