Famous Bridge victory is one to savour for Nicky Richards

Famous Bridge was a popular winner of the Oddschecker Grand National Trial Handicap Chase at Haydock for Nicky Richards.

The Greystoke handler suffered serious injuries in a gallops fall in November which saw him hospitalised with a broken shoulder, several broken ribs and a fractured pelvis.

Richards, 68, son of the late Gordon Richards who won the race with Twin Oaks in 1991, has only been racing a handful of times since, yet while he is still suffering with a “few aches and pains” he looked remarkably sprightly in the paddock.

Famous Bridge, wearing first-time cheekpieces, was sent off favourite for the corresponding race last year when falling inside the final mile and had run well in two decent races this season.

A 6-1 shot on this occasion, Sean Quinlan had him in a lovely rhythm and while Welsh National winner Val Dancer kicked for home early, he did not panic and drew alongside two from the finish.

It was then that the favourite Apple Away emerged as the danger and they jumped the last in unison, but Famous Bridge outstayed her to win by three lengths.

“He’s a good horse. He was only just ticking over when he unseated last year, he was very unlucky then but he’s made up for it today,” said Richards.

“He’s always been a grand horse, a real stayer. He won’t get in at Aintree this year, unfortunately, as I’d have loved to run him. Maybe next year.

“He could be one for the Scottish National, but he wouldn’t want it too fast. He’ll probably go to Cheltenham now for the race he was fourth in last year (Ultima). He’s probably just coming to himself now.

“The cheekpieces just sharpened him up a bit.”

Looking back on his accident he said: “I had lots of good wishes, you wouldn’t believe it, and I’d like to thank everyone.

“I’ll probably get back on the horse one day, it’s all we know, it’s our life.

“I’ve been racing three or four times since it happened I think. It’s been a long process and there’s still a few aches and pains but we’re getting there.”