Gordon Elliott said he was pleased with the efforts of Silver Birch after his Grand National hero of 2007 finished ninth in the Slane Handicap Hurdle won by Bit Of A Devil

Ridden by Elliott's brother Joey, the 12-year-old was seen to have a good blow after the race and is now set for a return to the Liverpool venue.

"I'm happy although I thought he'd finish a bit closer," revealed the trainer.

"He just got caught a bit flat footed but he is 12 and is not getting any younger. I thought at one stage he would be tailed off but when Joey gave him a slap down the shoulder he stayed on well. If he jumps around Aintree and finishes seventh or eighth I would be happy."