JERSEY resident Paul Green’s Grand National runner Eurotrek will not be in the field for the Aintree marathon on Saturday because of injury.

But fellow Islander Trevor Hemmings is hopeful that his horse Hedgehunter can repeat last year’s victory and become the first horse since the legendary Red Rum in 1974 to win the race two years in succession.

However, Island bookmakers are hoping that he does not win again, as the horse is already heavily backed by Islanders and many more bets are expected before the off.

Steve Ahier, of bookies Vaudin and Gallichan in Colomberie, said that Hedgehunter and Clan Royal were the housewives’ favourites this year.

‘There is always money for Jersey-owned or connected horses,’ he said.

‘The worst one was Corbière – what a tragedy that was for us bookmakers.’ Hedgehunter is joint favourite for Saturday’s race and is expected to start at about 5/1.

However, Mr Hemmings is also advising punters not to ignore his other runner, Juveigneur.