'We've had a few quiet years - but this week could change all our lives'

As Charlie Longsdon cheerily fills hay nets on a bitingly cold morning at Hull Farm Stables, he jokes: "This is how the real world works."

A member of his team confirms this was not staged for the benefit of a visiting journalist and that the trainer is not afraid to get his hands dirty. He is far from the only one hard at work before first lot at 7am and the yard is abuzz with industry, with runners at three meetings.

Amid the organised chaos, Longsdon has the extra responsibility of discussing Snow Leopardess, who has been backed into favouritism with some bookmakers for the Randox Grand National on Saturday.