Train operator Merseyrail records more 105,000 passenger journeys made by racegoers during the three-day Grand National festival – and it gave away 4,000 pairs of flip-flops. Tony McDonough reports

More than 105,000 passenger journeys were made by racegoers on Merseyrail during the three-day Grand National festival.

In the biggest attendance at the event post-COVID, tens of thousands of people made the journey to and from Aintree Racecourse by train on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of the festival. Many were carried on the new 777 Class trains.

Merseyrail increased the number of trains during the three days and, at times, was running a seven-and-a-half-minute frequency. Staff also gave away 4,000 pairs of its flip-flops to racegoers with aching feet.

And it delivered live music and entertainment to passengers at Aintree station. A total of £4,200 was raised by charitable collections at the station. This will go to Woodlands Hospice, Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid and The Paper Cup Project.

READ MORE: Merseyrail announces Bank Holiday shutdown on Kirkby line

Jane English, acting managing director at Merseyrail, said: “We were delighted and proud to deliver a brilliant customer experience and train service during the Grand National Festival. 

“Despite some mixed weather and disruption, which was expertly managed, we safely transported over 105,000 attendees to and from the racecourse.

“It was great to get feedback directly from passengers, who were so impressed how organised everything was, regardless of where they travelled from.​

“It’s a tribute to the professionalism and expertise of the Merseyrail staff in both the pre-planning and delivery over the three days. 

“There are more huge events planned for the Liverpool city region over the next few months, and I am in no doubt that the same organisation and planning from Merseyrail will support and enhance the public’s enjoyment.”