Barnet FC’s loveable mascot Mr Bumble was unable to make it three consecutive wins in the Mascot Grand National yesterday as he somewhat controversially finished in second place.

The two-time winner was taking part in the annual mascot race at Kempton Park racecourse on Bank Holiday Monday.

The crowd basked in the sunshine as mascots from a variety of sports and other industries competed in the 200 metre race over hurdles in a field which included Olympic Silver medallist Iwan Thomas.

Mr Bumble did brilliantly to place second after being handicapped in the second row at the start line for his previous performances.

A dejected Mr Bumble said, “I’m gutted! I thought I was going to make history today with a hat-trick, but I got penalised on the start line for doing so well last year. If I started from the front I think I would have won but that’s how it goes I suppose.”

The race was won by safety mascot Barry Barrat who donned a high-vis vest and hard hat.