Turko has been confirmed a runner in the John Smith's Grand National after trainer Paul Nicholls announced him a starter with Richard Johnson riding.

Nicholls, who failed in his attempt to prise RubyWalsh off Hedgehunter and on to Turko, had considered not running Andy Stewart's Ryanair Chase third had he been unable to secure the services of a top-flight rider.

Another possible Grand National runner became an intended Grand National runner when Venetia Williams declared Mon Mome on course for Aintree.

Williams, whose eight-year-old is as short as 20-1 with VC Bet, said: "Mon Mome is in good order and is going to run in the National."

The presence of Turko and Mon Mome in thefield further reduces the chances of Philson Run, Dun Doire, Ardaghey and Joes Edge from squeezing into the race.

The predicament facing that quartet was later compounded when No Full was confirmed a runner under Shay Barry.