BINGO!
Futter's £1M flutter

WINNING owner Mike Futter landed the biggest gamble in Grand National history when Monty's Pass won yesterday's Aintree spectacular.

Blackpool-born Futter, 54, was jubilant after the Irish-trained 16-1 shot romped home to land him over £1million-£800,000 in bets plus a share of the £348,000 first prize.

The bingo club owner, who now lives in Bangor, Northern Ireland, said: "I have been telling all my friends for weeks that they must back Monty's Pass for the National.

"I know lots of them took 33-1 and there will be plenty of bookies both sides of the Irish Sea who will be hurting. I am looking forward to going down the lines of Aintree bookmakers to get paid out."

Monty's Pass won by 12 lengths from 40-1 chance Supreme Glory, with Amberleigh House (33-1) another two lengths away in third and long-time leader Gunner Welburn a gallant fourth.

Hills spokesman David Hood said: "We laid £5,000 each way at 33-1 early last month and another £10,000 to win at 20-1 a week later.

"Those bets alone took out £393,000. I can only say it was an Irish punter — I think you can guess the rest!"

Winning jockey Barry Geraghty, the leading rider at last month's Cheltenham Festival with five wins, is fast becoming the bookies' least favourite jockey.

He said: "I could not believe how easily Monty's Pass won. He was always travelling so well and jumped brilliantly.

"I was sixth in the National three years ago, but in the last two years I have not got round!"

As usual, there was tragedy behind the celebrations. Goguenard was put down after breaking a leg when falling at the 19th fence.