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Grand National Preview: The favourites rated by Timeform

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The leading contenders in the Aintree betting assessed...

Cloudy Lane - current odds [7.0] - Very warm favourite and it's not hard to see why. Represents McCain family, is thrown in at weights on evidence of two successes since National marks published and excellent win-rate of 9 from 19 starts. Possible negatives are that he's never tackled Aintree fences and stamina not cast-iron.

Comply Or Die - [13.0] - Revitalised by blinkers on last two outings and appeals as one of the better handicapped on basis of Eider Chase win if headgear works as well a third time. Travels and jumps well and should stay. Strong claims if taking to the fences.

Slim Pickings - [15.0] - Beaten only two lengths when third in last year's National. Light campaign this season but shown enough to suggest he's in good heart. Looks sure to run well, albeit others likely to be better treated.

Simon - [16.0] - Going well when falling 6 out in last year's National and arguably the pick of those towards the top of the weights this year. Solid efforts when in frame this season, seems impervious to ground and likely to give a good account.

Chelsea Harbour - [18.0] - Won Grand National Trial at Punchestown in February and fine fourth over inadequate trip last time, when he showed he can handle good ground. Can be a tad free, but definite claims if he settles early.

Bewleys Berry - [18.0] - Has twice jumped the National fences with aplomb, particularly when chasing home Mr Pointment in Becher. That will stand him in good stead and forgiven most recent effort, when palpably in need of run.

Butler's Cabin - [21.0] - Has champion jockey McCoy on-board and a leading contender for this on evidence of last season's form which included win in Irish National. However, three runs this season have been very disappointing.

Mr Pointment - [24.0] - Jumped National fences superbly when making all in Becher Chase in November. However, handicapper has done him few favours and ran dismally in prep race at Doncaster.

Snowy Morning - [26.0] - Unexposed compared to most in this line-up and potentially well-treated on evidence of second to Denman at last year's Cheltenham Festival and third to The Listener in Irish Hennessy. Run may have come too soon when only third last time out. Interesting contender, although passed over by Walsh.

King Johns Castle - [29.0] - Attracted market support in build-up and, though passed over by McCoy, is interesting as an unexposed contender who has long shaped as if a thorough stamina test will suit. Has hinted at temperament though and probably best with cut.

McKelvey - [32.0] - Heart-breaking second in 2007 National when twice hampered and he returned lame. Clearly handles fences well, but interrupted preparation this term and best chance may have gone with that injury on last year's run-in.

Point Barrow - [28.0] - Well-supported in market last year but backers would have done well to even spot him before he went at the first. Best of his form gives him claims, but can drop himself out and suspicion he's best with plenty of cut too.