The Grand National makes its much anticipated return this week, with festivities kicking off on Thursday, April 7.
This year's event marks the first time people will be permitted to attend in person since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. The pandemic caused dramatic upheaval to the events industry, with a vast array of events cancelled, postponed or altered in line with government-mandated restrictions.
Last year's Grand National was a televised affair, with fans tuning in to catch the action from their own homes. This year's event marks a return to previous form, with organisers keen to make it an event to remember.
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The government ended all coronavirus related restrictions on February 24 as part of its Living with Covid-19 strategy. This saw the removal of all remaining domestic restrictions in law.
The legal requirement to self-isolate following a positive test was also ended from this date, bringing with it an end to self-isolation support payments. Routine contact tracing was also ended, as was the legal requirement for close contacts who are not fully vaccinated to self-isolate.
Until April 1, the government advised people who tested positive to stay at home but now, people with Covid-19 symptoms are expected to "exercise personal responsibility, just as we encourage people who may have flu to be considerate to others". This means with such restrictions lifted, race goers will not be required to display a covid pass to attend the Grand National.
Anyone with any Covid-19 symptoms is advised to take a lateral flow or PCR test and not attend the festival until they know they are safe to do so. There will be hand sanitising stations throughout the racecourse, as well as posters and promotions asking people to wash their hands regularly.
Racegoers may choose to wear face masks indoors or anywhere they wish on the racecourse, but this is down to personal choice.
The Randox Grand National 2022 will take place from Thursday, April 7 to Saturday, April 9. It is held at Aintree racecourse.
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