National fans given travel advice

The first race begins at 1400 BST on Thursday

Racegoers have been given travel advice for the Grand National meeting, which begins on Thursday.

Rail guards on Merseyrail have voted to strike on Friday and Saturday over working hours, threatening chaos for people trying to get to Aintree.

People are advised to leave plenty of time for their journeys, use car shares to cut traffic or public transport.

There is limited extra parking at the course, but motorists are urged to use park and ride facilities at Kirkby.

About 8,000 cars can be accommodated at the site, which is just off the M57.

Shuttle buses will also be on hand at Kirkby, Ormskirk and Liverpool Lime Street stations.

The first race on Thursday begins at 1400 BST.