Sophie Sheldon will be going for an unprecedented hat-trick of wins when the Isle of Wight Grand National gets under starter’s orders on Sunday (Mar 28).

Sophie who comes from King’s Manor, but is studying politics at Newcastle University, has won the popular horse racing event for the past two years. And she will be travelling down from the north east to team up with her mount Shalcombe Skyline to try to make it three in a row.

The Grand National and Ashey Scurry takes place at West Ashey Farm, Ryde by kind permission of Alan Aylett, and always attracts huge interest. The organisers are now keeping their fingers crossed that no more heavy rain falls before the event.

Sophie can expect stern opposition from Fraser Marshall, who is coming over from the mainland to take part. Fraser finished third last year behind Sophie, and his wife Charlotte, who was riding Birdie.

This time Fraser has opted to ride Birdie, hoping he can go one better than his other half!

The National climaxes a five-race programme that has attracted more than 50 entries. Secretary Caroline Cooper said: “We are hoping for a good day’s racing in front of a big crowd. And of course if spectators do not want to drive to the course, they can always catch a train from Havenstreet.

“Hot and cold food is available, as well as a licensed bar, and a whisky raffle is also planned.”

The event, which has been running nearly 20 years, will begin with the Puffing Billy Stakes closely followed by the Puffed Out Billy Stakes. The Ashey Scurry Senior Division and Junior Division will be followed by the main race.