There have also been some significant events with other big races in mind, not least Many Clouds’ win in a listed chase at Kelso on Sunday. This looked some performance by last year’s Grand National winner, as he put away the smart Unioniste by 10 lengths. But next home was the exposed 11-year-old handicapper Carrigdhoun, which suggests the form was not strong.

Many Clouds has been credited with a timefigure of 151 – well below what should be required for him to follow up at Aintree in three weeks’ time – though he certainly goes there in great heart. The Last Samuri remains number one on time for the big race.