LAST year's Grand National winner will be among the stars when stables around the region's racing capital open their doors to the public.

The Middleham Stables Open Event was a casualty of the foot-and-mouth crisis last year - but the North Yorkshire town is hoping to make up for lost time with a comprehensive insight into the Sport of Kings on Good Friday - March 29.

Red Marauder, which crossed the line at Aintree as the first of two runners to last the course almost a year ago, will be stabled at George and Carol Moore's stables, at Warwick Lodge, between 9.30am and 2pm.

Another 15 stables will also be open to the public, with coach transport from Middleham laid on to some of the more far-flung locations.

A country fair on Middleham's Market Place, a farrier's workshop, trade stands and an art exhibition are among other attractions planned.

Further details can be had by telephoning the Middleham Key Centre on (01969) 624502.