William Hill has put up a £500,000 bonus to any horse that wins one of three designated trial races before following up in the Randox Grand National at Aintree later in the season.

The three selected trial races are the Becher Chase at Aintree, the Classic Chase at Warwick and the Grand National Trial at Haydock. 

Dickon White, regional director northwest at the Jockey Club, said: "We're delighted to be supporting William Hill with this fantastic initiative in the build up to the Randox Grand National. 

"The introduction of the William Hill Half A Mill will generate a real excitement throughout the season and we hope to incentivise some of the leading Grand National contenders to try out their credentials in one of the three qualifying races." 

Mark Howarth, William Hill's director of racing, added: "The Grand National has a special place in the British sporting calendar, and we're excited to further elevate the build-up, and to encourage as many Grand National hopes to run in some very recognised trials for the world's greatest race."