Two people have been arrested outside of Aintree Racecourse ahead of potential protests at the Grand National.
Merseyside Police have confirmed that a woman and a man have been arrested outside of the racecourse on suspicion of conspiracy to cause public nuisance. The Grand National festival is into its final day with the historic steeplechase set to run at 5.30pm.
The woman, a 25-year-old from London, was arrested at about 11.20am this morning, Saturday April 15. The man was arrested shortly after at approximately 11.50am.
READ MORE: Confirmed full list of 40 runners and riders, racecard, times, tips, and results from Aintree
Another woman, 33-years-old and who is from the London area, was arrested in Greater Manchester earlier this morning in connection with potential co-ordinated disruption activities at Aintree racecourse. According to Merseyside Police, both women are in custody where they will be questioned by officers.
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: "Merseyside Police has been working with The Jockey Club and other partners to keep people safe during the Grand National Festival.
“We are aware of some people planning to protest at the event. This has been factored into our plans. We respect the right to peaceful protest and expression of views, but criminal behaviour and disorder will not be tolerated and will be dealt with robustly."
Protestors have been positioned outside of the racecourse this morning in opposition to the event. Animal Rising activists have previously said they plan to scale the fences and enter the track of Aintree Racecourse before the Grand National race begins.
Dora Hargitai, 37, a volunteer with Animal Rising, told PA: “I do believe we can have non-violence on both sides. The race has to stop. Today and forever.”
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