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Tuesday, 10 April 2007, 09:46 GMT 10:46 UK

Police in race security warning

2006 Grand National Race-goers attending the Grand National are likely to be subjected to a series of security checks, police have said.

Officers want to make sure the event runs smoothly and safely for the 150,000 people who are expected at the three-day Aintree Festival.

Bag and transport searches will be carried out as well as badge checks to crack down on forgeries.

Visitors should expect delays getting in to the course as a result and are being asked to stay patient.

Merseyside Police said a number of people had tried to gain entry using forged badges in the past and anyone caught with one would be arrested.

"The extra time given to ensure the safety of everyone at the event is time well spent"
Ch Supt Dave Lewis

Officers will also be cracking down on alcohol abuse, drink drivers and motorists who use their mobile while driving.

The main threat to race-goers remains petty crime, the force said, and officers are urging people to take precautions.

Ch Supt Dave Lewis said: "We want to ensure visitors have an enjoyable day at the races and I would ask everyone to help with the smooth running of the event.

"There will be some delays for people getting into the racecourse, so allow plenty of time to get through the security checks before the racing begins and please be patient.

"The extra time given to ensure the safety of everyone at the event is time well spent."

Extra high visibility patrols will be carried out during the festival and a mobile police station will also be set up at Aintree railway station.



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Related to this story:
Grand National 2007 entries (09 Apr 07 |  Horse Racing )
Network Rail denies chaos claims (05 Apr 07 |  Merseyside )
Race security takes to the skies (05 Apr 06 |  Merseyside )

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Aintree Racecourse
Merseyside Police
Sport - Horse Racing
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