TIME to celebrate Merseyside's famous sporting heroes during the Randox Health Grand National Festival.

Jockey Club Racecourses have announced a 'Celebration of Merseyside Sport' for Grand National Thursday event on April 12, 2018.

Arguably one of the best days in British Racing Jumps calendar, the newly renamed Grand National Thursday – A Day for Champions will celebrate the many successes of sport across Merseyside.

To mark the occassion, a brand new Champions Lounge will open located next to Aintree’s Parade Ring and hosted by BBC Breakfast’s Dan Walker.

Throughout the day there will be Q&A sessions with the likes of Liverpool FC legend Kenny Dalglish, Everton FC’s Graeme Sharp, Olympic gold medallist Sam Quek, Olympic medallist and three-time World Champion, Beth Tweddle and Rugby League Legend Jon Wilkin.

Racegoers who buy tickets for the Champions Lounge will receive a buffet ‘Feast for Champions’, breakfast canapes, Earl of Derby Grandstand seats, traditional Afternoon Tea, musical entertainment, a complimentary racecard and free car parking.

Olympic medalist and three-time World Champion Beth Tweddle said: “I’ve always been a Grand National fan – every year I make sure I watch the Grand National race – it’s the race that stops the nation.

"When I ask people about Grand National Thursday, they always say what a fantastic day it is, superb racing and their best day of the three.

"I’m delighted to be part of Aintree’s celebration of Merseyside Sport – we certainly have a lot of talented people across many sport which I’m sure will be showcased really well on the day.”

Tickets for the Champions Lounge on Grand National Thursday are priced at £299 plus VAT.

To purchase go to www.randoxhealthgrandnational.co.uk or call 0151 522 2911.

Racegoers can also email gnhospitality@thejockeyclub.co.uk or buy tickets directly from the sales office at Aintree Racecourse.