A POPULAR couple from a Droitwich Spa village will be chasing Grand National glory when their horses run in the famous race this weekend.

Angela and William Rucker, from Saleway, own the Evan Williams-trained Cappa Bleu and State Of Play, which are set to take their place in the famous contest at Aintree on Saturday.

The family’s well-known cerise and blue colours, which have been seen for many years around the local point-to-point scene and at racecourses across the country, will be on show at the Liverpool course and watched by millions of television viewers.

Cappa Bleu, a general 17/1 shot for the race, will have stable jockey Paul Moloney in the saddle after he elected to ride the gelding ahead of Aintree regular State Of Play, which has previously finished third and fourth in the marathon contest.

Cappa Bleu came third in this season’s Welsh National and has previously won the prestigious Foxhunters’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in 2009.

Owner Angela Rucker, daughter of horsewoman Pat Tollitt, who used to be a firm favourite at local point-to-points for her consistent riding skills, said: “We are very excited about the Grand National. This will be the first time we have had two runners in the race.

“We don’t think the distance will be an issue for Cappa Bleu, but you just never know. He came back here before the start of the season and really got his confidence back. It really helped him and we have been pleased with him since.

“We are just hoping they both put in a good performance and come back safe.”