Racing’s most colourful fixture returns to Kempton Park next month, raising money for Princess Alice Hospice.

The Mascot Grand National takes place on bank holiday Monday, May 6, with last year’s champion Mr Bumble of Barnet FC looking to defend his crown.

This year’s event will also see entry fees donated to local charity Princess Alice Hospice, providing specialist end of life care to patients and their families.

Last year’s race featured more than 50 mascots from up and down the country, including Windsor FC’s Scotty the Stag and Sutton United’s Jenny the Giraffe.

This will be only the second year the prestigious race is run at the Sunbury racecourse, having spent the previous 12 years at Huntingdon.

Mascots of all shapes and sizes are invited to join in the fun, but must enter before the closing date of April 19.

For more information or to download the entry form, visit kempton.co.uk/mascot-grand-national or call 01932 782292.

Tickets for the family fun day cost £12.80 for adults if booked in advance on kempton.co.uk or by calling the ticket hotline on 0844 5793008, £16 on the day and children go free.