Paul Carberry has got the go-ahead to resume racing and immediately faces a difficult decision about returning to action in next Saturday's Martell Grand National.

Carberry, who won the Aintree spectacular on Bobbyjo in 1999, confirmed yesterday he has been "offered a few rides" in the big race, but has yet to accept one.

The top jockey hasn't ridden in a race since he broke his leg in a freak accident at Fairyhouse in October, but got the green light from his doctor yesterday and has resumed riding work.

"It's so far, so good. Dr Halley (the Turf Club medical officer) has to have a look at it, but I should be okay. It's a huge relief after such a long wait," Carberry said. "I would like the leg a bit stronger. I rode out at Noel Meade's today and it's still not 100 per cent, but I'm okay to ride. I just need more time. "I've been offered a few rides in the National but it's a hard one to call. I'm not sure what I will do. I don't want to get back to square one with the leg if I have a fall," he added.

The National rides offered are believed to include the Richard Phillips-trained Noble Lord, who is a general 16 to 1 shot, but Carberry's decision will also have to take into account the Government view on travelling to cross-sea meetings.

"People are travelling over every day, but I don't have to decide straight away. I suppose I will have to let people know next week," Carberry said.

Cartmel has become the latest racecourse to fall within a foot and mouth disease exclusion zone. A confirmed case in Grange-over-Sands has proved the track's downfall. Cartmel only has five days' racing this year and is set to stage action on May 26th, 28th and 30th.