Grand National: Merseyside turns on style for Ladies’ Day at Aintree

THOUSANDS of women upped the fashion stakes in the sunshine earlier today at a sold-out Grand National Ladies’ Day.

Racing almost took a back seat while footballer Wayne Rooney’s wife Coleen led the way as an estimated 50,000 punters attended the second day of the festival at Aintree.

Rooney was decked out in a black and white skater style number with a floral print and black Christian Louboutin heels.

Joanne Sloan, 39, from Southport said she was there to prove that Merseyside girls are not all “trashy” dressers.

She said: “We have got a bad reputation when it comes to dress sense but I think we can do it all, vintage, classy and glamour.”

Elaine Kivi, 57, from Birmingham, said: “I am here to show off my skills, I make hats.

“I bought feathers in turquoise, aquamarine, lilac and yellow to make the one I am wearing.

“It is my first time at Ladies’ Day at Aintree and so far, so good. It is great because everyone just dresses to look their best and the men make an effort too.”

Jockeys made their annual visit to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital to meet patients and parents this morning.

They were led by 16-time champion jockey Tony McCoy.

He said: “I have been coming to Alder Hey for quite a long time, we come here before the National every year. Most of the lads riding in the National are here

“Hopefully it takes the kids’ minds off things a little bit and makes their day a little bit easier but I think more importantly it creates awareness of how important places like Alder Hey are.”