CHARITY PUNT: Racing Post columnist Steve Palmer, right, places a £50 charity bet on the Grand National at Ladbrokes in his hometown of Weymouth in aid of the Weldmar Hospicare Trust.

The tipster opted for West End Rocker at odds of 11/1 due to the anticipated wet conditions.

Commenting on Saturday’s race at Aintree, Palmer said: “West End Rocker is a bit of a mudlark who loves soft ground. It has been raining a lot at Aintree and the forecast is for more over the next couple of days.

“The 10-year-old also won the Becher Chase at Aintree back in December by 22 lengths and jockey Wayne Hutchison has a great record on him. He has ridden him five times and won four races on him.”

Pictured with Palmer are, from left: Jake Johnston, Trev Wilkins and Matt Hawkins (branch manager).