Priest prays for success in Grand National (From Swindon Advertiser)

Priest prays for success in Grand National

11:25am Friday 3rd April 2009 in News

A SWINDON priest will be praying for success in tomorrow’s Grand National - after being offered a chance to raise money for charity.

Father Liam Slattery, of St Mary’s Catholic Church, Tovey Road, was given a free £50 charity bet by Ladbrokes and stands to scoop £1,250 if his horse, Parsons Legacy, romps home.

The winnings would go to the Handicapped Children’s Pilgrimage Trust, which has already received £1500 from the church.

Father Slattery said: “I was a bit surprised when Ladbrokes approached me about taking on a charity bet. Of course I’m not promoting gambling, and I know the damage it has done to some families.

“But this is a national institution - half of the public have probably had a bet on the Grand National.

“I’ll be praying all the runners and riders get round in one piece - but particularly Parsons Legacy.”