The family of a girl born weighing less than a bag of sugar said it's an "honour and a privilege" to be at the Grand National today after she was named honorary runner.
Four-year-old Betty Batt, from Warrington, was born at 23 weeks weighing just 650g. Mum Karen told the ECHO it's an "honour and a privilege" for the family to have been nominated by the Jockey Club and they can't wait for a day out at the races having never been before.
Karen hopes Betty being named honorary runner will help shine a light on all the work the staff at Alder Hey Children's Hospital do helping families in need. Speaking previously to the ECHO Karen called her daughter a "miracle" and "a little legend" after Betty spent the first 13 months of her life in intensive care.
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Betty celebrated her first birthday in the critical care unit before finally getting to go home for the first time when she was 13 months old. The family have endured an emotional rollercoaster including a setback when Betty became sick again and lost a lot of the skills she'd learned.
Karen said it was a "terrifying time" for the family but they know "Alder Hey will always be there to catch her if she falls". She added there have been plenty of highs and lows but Betty's smile is what keeps the family going.
The Batt family found out Betty had been nominated as the honorary runner two months ago after being contacted by the Jockey Club. Betty will see her name appear around the racecourse and on the race-card alongside the 40 horses taking part in the £1m race.
Karen said: "We can't wait to shine a light on the incredible work that Alder Hey do as a hospital. They've massively supported our family and we owe a great debt to all the incredible people who have cared for Betty and supported us on our journey.
"It's a huge privilege to be there today and we are all super excited. It's really lovely to have a chance to make some lovely memories as a family.
"We've never been before but we watch it on TV every year. We can't wait to get there and experience the atmosphere which we've heard is fabulous."
The family want to continue to raise awareness and funds for Alder Hey who have supported Betty throughout her journey. The Batts started last year's Santa Dash and hope the Grand National provides another opportunity to highlight the work the hospital does.
Karen said: "It's going to be a lovely event and we can't wait for the big race. People have been asking us if they can bet on Betty and I have to tell them she actually isn't going to be riding a horse.
"But anyone who wants to bet on Betty can make a donation to Alder Hey on behalf of Betty which is just lovely."
