National winner Neptune Collonges on parade

Grand National hero Neptune Collonges was on parade in Shropshire yesterday.

The now retired 11-year-old, owned by Cosford's John Hales, was the star attraction at President's Day at St Georges Cricket Club.

Members of the public were able to have their picture taken with the popular grey, who won the National at Aintree in the race's tightest-ever finish in April, at the club where Hales is patron.

"It was a fantastic gesture from John and added a lot to the day," said club president Stan Higgins.

"It was great to see Neptune there."

The appearance of Neptune Collonges was followed by a 40-over-per side match between a St Georges XI, captained by former player

Andy Johnson, and a 'visitors' XI led by Steve Taylor, who still plays for the FBC Manby Bowdler Shropshire County Cricket League club. Four Australian overseas professionals who are plying their trade around England lined up for the visitors.

Funds raised from yesterday's event will be shared between charities.

They are nominated by the families of three club stalwarts – former president and chairman Eric Lomas and his wife Millie and ex-overseas professional Mike Brennan, who died last year.