THE sleepy village of Cartmel will be abuzz when Chief Dan George makes his Grand National bow at Aintree on Saturday.

James Moffatt and 11-year-old The Chief are being tipped for a strong run over the 4m 4f course, with betting markets offering between 25-1 to 40-1.

Racing journalist and tipster Marten Julian, from Kendalm said: "Chief Dan George has many of the attributes - he's got the class, he's got the stamina, he's the right age and a good weight.

"This horse has ticks in all the right boxes to be a National winner - he has the perfect National profile."

The Royal Oak at Cartmel will show the race at 4.15pm and landlord Darren led the good luck messages.

He said: “We are wishing The Chief, Maurice, Jimmy and everyone involved the best of luck. There will be big celebrations here if they come home in first.”

Father Robert Bailey from Cartmel Priory added: “It is excellent news for Jimmy because he has been working really hard.”

Penrith's Nicky Richards will also be hoping for a tilt at this year's National with Skippers Brig currently first reserve for the race, priced at 33-1 with bookmakers.

Latest Grand National odds: 8-1 Midnight Club; 11-1 Backstage, What a Friend, Oscar Time, 14-1 Ballabriggs, Don't Push It, 33-1 Chief Dan George, Skippers Brig