More recently in 2012 Katie Walsh rode Seabass and finished third…and Nina Carberry has entered the race five times… They have and are taking on the world… In 1994 Rosemary Henderson (riding Fiddlers Pike) finished in fifth place as did Carrie Ford (on Forest Gunner) in 2005. In 1982 Geraldine Rees, on Cheers – finished the course. In 1976 the Sex Discrimination Act was passed and Charlotte Brew entered the National in 1977 on Barony Fort. In 1935 women weren’t allowed to ride in the Grand National. I so wish that I had read this when younger – a powerful book of the culmination of dreams and determination against – well – read it! They cleared the wall together, wildly, ludicrously high, with savage effort and glory, and twice the force and power that was needed…’ She urged him no more, there was no need, but sat him still. ‘She bent slightly and held him firm and steady, her hands buried in the flying mane firm on the stout muscles of his neck. ‘They’ made a film of it in 1944 (Elizabeth Taylor was in it) – but I suddenly remembered the book last week, realised it wasn’t in stock, had the ‘powers that be’ order some and bought a copy.

The use of colloquialisms (this was published in 1935) perhaps a little strange, but add colour to this gorgeous book about a young girl’s dreams… The passion, pace and the use of language are wonderful.

This is frankly one of the best books I have read for years. The fictional tale of a young girl entering the Grand National.

National velvet bagnold