Grand National: Coleen Rooney jumps to defence of Ladies Day and Aintree

COLEEN Rooney has defended her fellow Liverpudlian ladies as 'gorgeous' and 'dressed to perfection' as Ladies Day at the Crabbie's Grand National meeting came under intense social etiquette scrutiny.
Footballer Wayne Rooney's wife Coleen at Aintree.Footballer Wayne Rooney's wife Coleen at Aintree.
Footballer Wayne Rooney's wife Coleen at Aintree.

In a series of tweets before yesterday’s alcohol-fuelled revelry that left the racecourse strewn with empty Champagne bottles, the mother-of-three, who celebrated her 30th birthday at Aintree on Thursday, said attendees at Liverpool’s social event of the year made a “massive effort” and did not deserve to get “slated” by the London-based media.

The wife of footballer Wayne Rooney added: “Not talking about me....I am in the public eye so expect criticism. It’s the innocent people that turn up for a great day and get slated.”

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Those attending the famous Liverpool horse-racing event had been encouraged to dress more elegant Ascot than the midriff baring, stiletto-clad look which had become synonymous with the National, but many failed to heed the fashion advice.

As for the National, bookmakers expect a record £350m to be gambled on the big race after the start was pushed back to 5.15pm to boost TV viewing figures.

Favourite Many Clouds is bidding to become the first horse to win successive renewals since the legendary Red Rum.

Jon Ivan-Duke, spokesman for bookmaker William Hill, said: “The later start time, after the 3pm football fixtures finish, should make it the biggest betting National of all time. This is the biggest weekend of betting ever seen. The National, Masters golf and football will generate the highest turnover levels on any weekend in history.”