There will be a huge security presence for today's Martell Grand National, for which 60,000 people are expected at Aintree racecourse. After last year's bomb hoax caused the postponement of the steeplechase, Merseyside police are taking no chances and 500 officers will be in or near the 240-acre site.
Yesterday the head of the operation, Supt Ray Revill-Johnson, had to cope with a fire alarm which caused the temporary evacuation of the County Stand during racing, and with an unattended bag in the weighroom at 4 a.m., which was blown up by an army disposal unit.
All that was found afterwards in a valet's bag were some charred papers. The fire alarm was caused by a technical fault but the police are prepared for anyone who decides to make a hoax call today.
"My message for them is that this is not a lark. We can trace calls very quickly and anyone who makes a hoax call will be arrested and face up to seven years in prison," Supt Revill-Johnson said.
Armed response vehicles and a helicopter will be present today at the races, which Princess Anne will attend. It is expected that £80 million sterling will be wagered on the Grand National.
Heavy rain fell on Thursday night, turning the course into a severe stamina test.
Rough Quest is the darling of Aintree as he bids to become the first horse since Red Rum to win more than once. Punters are hoping lightning can strike twice in today's £300,000 showpiece.
Despite a rare fall in the Cheltenham Gold Cup two weeks ago, he is the 6 to 1 favourite to earn his place in the history books.
The field was reduced to 36 when Avro Anson and Storm tracker were withdrawn because of the soft ground.
