Disclaimer: Compulsive gambling can harm your health and relationships, and leave you in serious debt. If you have a problem with gambling and you’d like to stop, support and treatment is available. To find information, support and counselling on gambling addiction, please visit the NHS website: www.bit.ly/NHSGambling

FOR the first time in many a year the Scottish Grand National takes place before the Aintree Grand National, and as a result, the strength and depth of the field is slightly diminished.

The Ayr 3.35 still looks a hugely competitive event and is one in which novices have always thrived through the years, with the view that many have yet to show their full talent and are therefore well handicapped.

Of the younger horses in that category this year are Major Dundee, Stormy Judge and Ask A Honey Bee. Of that trio, the first named looks extremely interesting as he has been campaigned very lightly this season with a view to protecting his rating (132) for this particular contest.