Channel 4 has confirmed that Clare Balding will return to host its coverage of the 2016 Grand National.

This year the 44-year-old missed the meeting to present the first ever televised Women's Boat Race on the BBC.

However, following the announcement that Channel 4 had signed a new deal to screen British horse racing's biggest event, it was revealed that Balding will resume her duties alongside Nick Luck, who took over in her absence in April.

"Clare has crafted world-class, award-winning coverage of racing on Channel 4," said the broadcaster's head of TV events Ed Havard.

"We are delighted that she will be fronting so many events in 2016 and that she will continue to showcase the sport for our audiences together with the outstanding team at [production company] IMG."

Balding posted on Twitter earlier today: "I've really enjoyed taking things easier this summer & the break has done me good. Now refreshed, relaxed & ready to go again.

"With that in mind, I'm delighted to be back working with a top team @Channel4Racing on the major racing days for 2016."

As well as the National, Balding will also present the likes of the Cheltenham Festival, Investec Derby, Royal Ascot and Qipco British Champions Day.