FRESH from winning the Grand National watched by millions of TV viewers, jockey Graham Lee was back in the saddle yesterday - at rural Hexham.

After his triumph on Ginger McCain's Amberleigh House at Aintree, Lee's good form continued when he completed a 44-1 double on Mister Arjay and Dewasentah.

Lee, who stayed in Liverpool on Saturday night, travelled to Hexham yesterday morning.

Asked how riding a double in two minor races compared with winning the world's most famous race, he said: "I wouldn't say it is quite the same as winning a National!

"But I still got a buzz about winning any sort of race, and after all yesterday is yesterday and you have just got to keep looking forward.

"I have taken a bit of ribbing about riding today, people said I should be enjoying myself.

"But I don't drink anyway and riding is my job and I enjoy that."

Irishman Lee, who lives in Ingleby Barwick, near Stockton, started his career riding for the Saltburn trainer Mary Reveley.

A colossal £200m was wagered on Saturday's big race, smashing all previous betting records.

Ladbrokes reported business to be up 20 per cent and the bookmaker took £40m on the race.

"Turnover was up in betting shops and there was an even bigger increase in telephone and Internet betting," said spokesman Balthazar Fabricius.

"With 'Mr Aintree' training the winner, it was a popular result for punters."

Ladbrokes are offering 500-1 on Amberleigh House emulating Ginger McCain's legendary Red Rum and winning three Grand Nationals.