Stylish Aintree racegoers defy wind and rain as they turn heads at Ladies Day in glamorous dresses

STYLISH Aintree racegoers today defied the wind and rain - turning heads as they donned glamorous dresses for Ladies Day.

The Grand National is one of the most anticipated events in the racing calendar - and racegoers refused to let their spirits be dampened by this afternoon's drizzly weather.

Braving the rain, Liverpool ladies turned up in brightly coloured dresses.

Dialling up their looks, women arrived at Aintree Racecourse wearing huge fascinators.

Photographs showed the racegoers happily downing drinks in the rain.

With champagne on tap the spirits are high as the fun-filled few days were underway.

As groups took shelter in huge tents they danced the day away.

And some even took extreme measures to keep dry - with one pictured having her feet dried with a leaf blower.

Ladies Day is the second day of the 2023 Grand National, with the main race taking place tomorrow.

According to the Jockey Club, the dress code at Aintree is very inclusive.

The website states: “At Aintree Racecourse we believe racing should be enjoyed by anyone and everyone. 

“And one thing is certainly true, the more relaxed and comfortable we feel, the more likely we are to have a great time. 

“So that’s why we’ve created one very simple piece of guidance, to come ‘dressed to feel your best’.

“So wear what feels right for you and will keep you feeling your best from start to finish, whatever the weather.”

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Fancy dress is also encouraged, but they add: “please avoid inappropriate or offensive outfits, as anything deemed vulgar or derogatory may be refused entry.”

The Grand National, which will kick off at 5.15pm on Saturday afternoon, remains arguably the biggest horse race in the world.

The event, which traditionally features 40 horses, has been running since 1839 and around a third of the UK is expected to put at least one bet on this year's race.