Injured Birch misses Grand National

Silver Birch, who was vying with Amberleigh House and Clan Royal for Grand National favouritism, will miss the John Smith's-sponsored showpiece at Aintree on April 9.

The eight-year-old, winner of his last three starts, including the Coral Welsh National at Chepstow over Christmas, was as low as 12-1 with some firms.

But trainer Paul Nicholls told Teletext: "We noticed on Thursday night that his leg was not quite right and sadly he has heat in it, which has ended his campaign."

"We will scan him on Monday to confirm the extent, but unfortunately he won't run again this season."

Filed by Katie Byrne