A RACEHORSE owned by a family in Houghton Green was one of the hopefuls in this year's hotly contested Scottish Grand National on Saturday.

This was the second race under the reins of the Wilson family after Highland Lodge won the Becher Chase at Aintree on December 5.

"We didn't have any expectations during that first race. It was a big surprise," said Simon, 48.

"He was near the front from the beginning and he jumped fantastically."

Simon, his wife Julie and his 23-year-old son Rhyan travelled to Scotland last weekend to watch jockey Henry Brooke and the 10-year-old gelding, sired by Flemensfirth out of a presenting mare.

The 48-year-old said: "We enjoyed Ayr and they look after you well.

"It was a privilege and an unforgettable experience to have a runner in the Scottish National.

"Highland Lodge ran well for a long time, despite the ground being sticky which he didn't like.

"Henry Brooke the jockey was very sensible and pulled him up when it was clear that his chance of winning had gone.

"The horse is back at the stables safe and well which is the most important thing."

It was hoped Highland Lodge would be able to compete in the £1million Crabbie's Grand National earlier this month but the hopeful narrowly missed out.

But the family remained positive about Highland Lodge’s chances during the race which is often hailed as one of the highlights of the Scottish sporting calendar.

Simon added: "After he won the Becher Chase we decided not to run him again until now, with a view to getting into the Grand National at Aintree or the Scottish National at Ayr so he has been trained specifically with these races in mind."

This will be the first time Highland Lodge has raced since Simon's 16-year-old son Patric died on Saturday, February 13, following a tragic battle to beat cancer.

He said: "It is something we have been involved with and enjoyed as a family for a few years now.

"It has been tough but we are just trying to keep busy."

Following the race on Saturday, Simon now plans to work with trainer Jimmy Moffatt and jockey Henry Brooke to decide the next hurdle for Highland Lodge.