These were the scenes at an almost empty Aintree today ahead of the Grand National 2021.
Stands and walkways were deserted where normally thousands of punters would be getting ready for the big race.
Last year's Grand National was cancelled altogether due to the coronavirus pandemic - and this time around the festival is taking place without spectators.
Small groups of owners, trainers and connections were the only people who could be seen around the racecourse as anticipation builds to 5.15pm.
40 runners will tackle the famous fences when the National gets underway later this afternoon.
Cloth Cap is a 6/1 favourite currently to land the spoils, with Burrows Saint, Minella Times and Any Second Now close behind in the betting.
Our racing correspondent Chris Wright will be on course to bring you instant reaction - while Tony Scott joins him at Aintree to bring you all the instant news, views and interviews.
Follow our live updates here with all the latest results, tips and more.
The Grand National is watched each year by more than 500 million people in more than 140 countries.
And in the UK, you can watch the race unfold live on ITV today.
