The Racing UK ambassador, who was ruled out of the John Smith's Grand National, had on Monday mooted the possibility of returning as early as Wednesday for Cheltenham's two day meeting.

However, he told racinguk.com: "I'm still a little stiff and I think two more days' rest is the sensible thing. While it's a good meeting at Cheltenham, the priority is being 100% fit for Ayr this weekend, and then Punchestown next week."

Walsh can gain some consolation for missing the Grand National, with victory in the Scottish equivalent on Harry The Viking, the likely favourite for the Coral-sponsored marathon.

"He ran a cracker to come second in the four-miler at the Cheltenham Festival, and must have a great chance," added Walsh.