RED Marauder, winner of last year's Grand National, will be making a guest appearance at the Middleham stables open day on Good Friday.

He was the first owner-trained horse - belonging to Norman Mason - to win the National since Grittar in 1982.

A further outing at Aintree had been planned for this year, but it was announced in February that he would not be running again this season due to a recurring leg problem.

He will be on show at George and Carol Moore's Warwick Lodge Stables from 9.30-2pm.

The Weatherbys-sponsored Middleham event attracts large crowds each year to see the horses in training and to meet the trainers and jockeys.

This year 16 yards will be open from 9.30 onwards - including Mrs Peacock's Manor House stud - with hopefully some foals on show.

Most will open until 1pm, but Oakwood, Glasgow House and Warwick Lodge Stables and Sharp Hill Farm will open until 2pm. Sun Hill Farm, Constable Burton, will open until 4pm.

Throughout the day other attractions will include a country fair, the farrier at work, trade stands, market stalls and an equestrian art exhibition by local artist John Atkins.

Admission is £4 in advance or £5 at the gate. Children under 12 are admitted free. The ticket includes coach transport to outlying stables, except Sun Hill Farm, which is accessible by car.

Further details are available from Middleham Key Centre on 01969 624502. There is also a website: www.middlehamstablesopenevent.co.uk.