One of the country’s biggest sporting events, the Randox Health Grand National , has started in style this year.
Racegoers will be treated to a feast of action today, on what’s described as ‘the day for Champions’.
The opening day of the Grand National Festival is not only renowned for fashion and glamour but it’s also the only one of three race days during the entire British Jump season to offer four Grade One contests.
These factors combined with the first day buzz at Aintree Racecourse makes the Grand National Thursday one of the key events in the Scouse social calendar.
Today ECHO reporters and photographers are out on the course and have captured some of the first stylish arrivals.
Looking fabulous - and staying warm.
Three stylish ladies, dressed to impress.
Keith McGeary, Chris Laughlin, John Newberry, Phill Greenough, who are all regulars to Aintree from Warrington and Liverpool.
Sophie Taylor, 22, from Huyton. Speaking to the ECHO, Sophie said: "It's my first time at Aintree on the Thursday I'm really looking forward to a drink with my family."
Kate Edwards, Megan, Dona, Jessica, Emma and Julie Cromby, Danielle Crone, Joanne Colins.
Jack Wall, Beth Heath, David Mooney, Rosie Mooney, Danny Murphy.
Helen and Seamus Milan, Paula and John O'Donnell, Rosie and Damian McAreavey, Kate and Sean Heron, who are all from Warrington.
Among the celebrities expected on the course today are Laura Wright, Sir Kenny Dalglish, Sir AP McCoy, Ruby Walsh, Katie Walsh, John Barnes, Leon Osman and Sam Quek.
However, we're expecting more to arrive throughout the day to experience the excitement of Aintree.
What about the racing?
Some horses have also been spotted warming up on the racecourse before the big day ahead.
Today the ground conditions have remained the same this morning after a dry night at Aintree. The Grand National course and the Mildway and Hurdle courses are being described as 'good to soft'.
Today's weather forecast is generally dry weather, with sunny spells and the odd shower, temperatures could reach 10 degrees.
Andrew Tulloch, Aintree's Clerk of the course, reported at 8.30am: "It was dry overnight, following a total of four millimetres of rain yesterday.
"I left the ground descriptions the same. We may or may not have some showers today. while temperatures are forecast to remain cool."
Here is the full racecard for Thursday at Aintree Racecourse:
1.45pm: Manifesto Novices’ Chase (G1) - 2m 3f 200y - £100,000 prize
2.20pm: Doom Bar Anniversay 4YO Juvenile Hurdle (G1) - 2m 209y - £100, 000 prize
2.50pm: Betway Bowl Chase (G1) - 3m 210y - £190,000 prize
3.25pm: Betway Aintree Hurdle (G1) - 2m 4f - £250,000 prize
4.05pm: Randox Health Foxhunters’ Chase GNC - 2m 5f 19y - £45,000 prize
4.40pm: Red Rum Handicap Chase (G3) - 1m 7f 176y - £90,000 prize
5.15pm: Goffs Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open NHF Race (G2) - 2m 209y - £45,000 prize
