SMITH'S BAND has had a training setback and will miss the Martell Grand National at Liverpool on March 30.

Confirming the news at Doncaster yesterday, trainer Jenny Pitman's son Mark said: "Smith's Band has had a successful year (winning three times) but won't run again this season. It is nothing too serious and hopefully, he will be back for all the big races next season."

Smith's Band's defection still leaves Mrs Pitman with three entries in the big Aintree steeplechase, last year's winner Royal Athlete and Superior Finish, both definite starters according to Mark.