Grand plan for National

Aintree slashes field and moves dangerous 1st fence

- Chris Riches

THE Grand National has cut the number of runners from 40 to 34 as part of a major safety overhaul.

Horses will set off from a standing start before reaching the first fence, which is brought 60 yards forward to slow the start of the four-mile race.

Foam and rubber toe boards will be added to every fence and the start time will also be brought forward as ground conditions can dry significantly throughout the day.

Horses will no longer be led past the grandstand in a parade before the race, instead being left to canter past the crowd to the start.