THIS week has seen the return of the Randox Grand National Festival and Merseyside Police

Merseyside Police have partnered with The Jockey Club, MerseyTravel, British Transport Police and local councils in planning the event so that racegoers and the public stay safe.

Superintendent Matthew Moscrop said: "For over 70 years our officers have been involved in making the Randox Grand National festival a safe and enjoyable occasion in Merseyside for the world to see.

"We want all of you who attend to be winners at Aintree this year so we are offering the best tips and advice to ensure everybody has a safe and enjoyable experience.

"We have a robust policing plan in place, as we would for any major public event, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved.

"It's important to stress that we have been working with our partners for a number of months in the build up to this year’s festival to ensure that plans and processes are in place to deal with any incidents that may arise and to prevent any significant or ongoing disruption to racegoers and local residents and businesses. Anti-social behaviour, disorder and violence will not be tolerated. We will be robust with anyone who behaves inappropriately or criminally.”

Superintendent Moscrop has issued this advice:

  • Racegoers can help us by giving themselves extra time to get to the racecourse, arriving in good time and limiting the number of bags and other items they bring into the course. Bags should be no larger than a small handbag (30cm x 20cm x 10cm)
  • Visitors should also expect to undergo security checks, including bag and transport searches and badge checks. Only pre-booked vehicles will be allowed onto the Aintree site and there are restrictions on parking around the course which will be rigorously enforced.
  • Cooperating with the security staff will ensure the queues are kept to a minimum. The security checks are there for everyone's benefit and the more cooperative and patient you are, the quicker the security and ticket staff can get everyone in.

Large numbers of people are also expected to head into Liverpool city centre and town centres across Merseyside after each day’s racing to experience our bars, clubs and restaurants and we are reminding people to plan ahead, respect each other and enjoy themselves responsibly.

Supt Moscrop added: "Over the weekend, we know that many people will be heading into Liverpool city centre, both after the races and to watch the racing in pubs, and visitors can expect to see a highly visible policing presence. I would encourage you to speak to our officers, highlight any concerns or issues and report any incidents.

“We know that people will be keen to enjoy our vibrant nightlife after a day at the races and we’re linked in with CCTV operators and working closely with door staff, licensees and bar staff to help make sure you feel safe whilst enjoying a night out.

"We know that half of all violent crimes committed are alcohol-related so please think about how much alcohol you’re drinking this weekend. Drink sensibly so that you can enjoy yourself with friends.

“Alcohol-related disorder will not be tolerated on the course, around it or in the city centre and local pubs and off-licenses will also be monitored to ensure people who are already drunk are not being served more alcohol.

"Whether you win or lose this Grand National our officers will be out and about to make sure that everyone can enjoy themselves. Have fun, look after each other and remember to report any incidents to our officers."