The final Grade One contest of the 2025 Randox Grand National Festival, the two-mile Rosconn Group Maghull Novices’ Chase, went to Kalif Du Berlais (15-8), who took the honours by three and a half lengths.

Winning trainer Paul Nicholls said: “We ran him at Sandown over two and a half because they didn’t want to take l’Eau Du Sud on. John [Hales] had just died. It was probably a bad decision. I’d have loved to have run him in the Arkle because I think he would have gone very close, but he came here fresh.

“He’s a very smart horse and I thought he’d win today. That’s me dreaming but he’s a very smart horse and he’s been working great, he’s maturing - the world’s at his feet. I’d like to think he’s a real Champion Chaser for next season. And it’s such a great way to end the season.

“The horses have come right; we’ve had some proper horses run well this week, so next season will be really exciting. Wonderful horses for the future and it’s really exciting for us.”

Winning rider Harry Cobden added: “Jumping was the name of the game there, and he was foot-perfect all the way round. He winged the ditch and I was a bit brain-dead on him to the last, but he stood long and quick. He’s very forward-going - he’s what you want, he’s an out and out galloper.

“I can’t believe how much he’s improved this season. He’s one that we’re really excited about. Two and half miles isn’t an issue either. His last run was disappointing, but I don’t think he was right and we can put a line through that.”