So, with just over 5 weeks to go until the world's most difficult steeplechase, the Grand National, is run does anyone have any particular strategies they use for picking a winner?

While I was working in a local betting shop a couple of year ago, I heard just about every conceivable reason for the choices people were making.

Personally, I tend to go with names or colours I like, because I figure in such a long race and with so many horses running just about anything can happen and form doesn't always count for as much as it does in regular races.

An interesting variation offered by some bookmakers is who the trainer or owner of the winner is.

That could make it a little more exciting than the traditional backing a horse to win.

I'm hoping to get tickets this year to go and see the race, which will be exciting!