FANCY a bet at this year's Grand National? Then how about backing local horse, Monbeg Dude, currently standing as joint favourite. Having won last season's Welsh National, trainer Michael Scudamore, 29, is now entering his mount for this year's Grand National. From one of the National Hunts most distinguished families, Michael is the third generation to take on this goliath of races. So no pressure then?

At Cheltenham racecourse on December 13th, screened live on Channel 4, Monbeg Dude, ridden by Michael's brother, Tom, won a Grade 3 race, overpowering the 7-2 favourite Theatre Guide. It was, said Michael: "The highlight of my training career so far. I thought then that the Grand National would be a viable option for him."

It was a sweet victory and demonstrates Monbeg Dude's progress in just a year. The ground at Chepstow's Welsh National last year was heavy and Monbeg won despite a series of errors. Read full report in this week's Gazette.