Aintree to parade region's sporting heroes

A host of Merseyside sporting legends will lead Liverpool Day celebrations to mark the start of the John Smith's Grand National meeting.

Some of the region's sporting stars will lead the jockeys out from the weighing room to the parade ring to officially mark the start of the 21 races that will take place over the three days.

Footballing heroes from both sides of Stanley Park including Reds' legends John Aldridge and Alan Kennedy and former Blues' managers Colin Harvey and Joe Royle will lead the parade.

The city's Olympic bronze medallists are also set to appear with boxer David Price and local swimmer Steve Parry joining the parade prior to the first race of the day, aptly titled the BGC partners 'Liverpool Hurdle'.

Former St Helens rugby league star Paul Sculthorpe and St Helens full back Paul Wellens will be in attendance alongside the club's own cheerleading squad which is set to entertain the crowds at the racecourse throughout the day.

Racegoers will also have the opportunity to have their picture taken with the European Cup from LFC's historic win in Istanbul in 2005 as well as hearing a live set from LFC impressionist and YouTube sensation Darren Farley.

In addition badge holders on the day will be entered into a 'hot seat' draw where they stand a chance of winning some lucrative prizes that include tickets to Royal Ascot, The Derby, an LFC themed Anfield experience as well as tickets for the Liverpool International Tennis Tournament at Calderstone's Park, in June.

The celebration of sporting heroes will form part of Liverpool Day entertainment for the first day of the prestigious meeting on April 8^th. This will include a photography exhibition and music from local bands plus a set by the acclaimed Bootleg Beatles.

Emma Owen, Marketing and PR Manager for Aintree Racecourse, said: "As part of the Liverpool Day celebrations we wanted to make sure we recognised the proud sporting heritage this city has.

"We want to give racegoers a day to remember and what better way is there than combining a full day of racing with celebrating all that is good about the city we love which includes a fantastic line-up of football and rugby greats."

Tickets and hospitality for all three days of the 2010 John Smith's Grand National meeting, can still be purchased in advance by visitingwww.aintree.co.uk or phone 0844 579 3001. The advance booking office at the racecourse is now open for racegoers who wish to purchase in person.