..AND THEY’RE VIRTUALLY OFF!

IT’S GRAND NATIONAL WEEK! WELL, SORT OF

BOOKIES are backing our healthcare heroes by donating all profits from the Virtual Grand National to the NHS Charities Together appeal.

With the coronavirus lockdown halting British horse racing, “event organisers” hope to create a feelgood factor with a computer version of the world famous Aintree steeplechase.

The outcome of the 40-runner race will be predicted by an “incredibly accurate” algorithm and shown using hi-tech animation and commentary at 5pm this Saturday on ITV.

The 250 NHS charities, who are collectively giving £1million every day to combat Covid-19, will benefit from the bookies’ profits.

Betting and Gaming Council chief

NATIONAL HERO: Tiger Roll was on a hat-trick executive Michael Dugher said: “Millions of us love a flutter on the Grand National. This year, the big winner will be our NHS.”

Stakes will be capped at £10 per horse per punter or £10 each-way per horse. Bookies will not know the winner beforehand.

Punters will watch a virtual Tiger Roll go for a third successive win after his 2018 and 2019 victories.

Coral’s David Stevens said: “There will be nothing virtual about any profits the betting industry raises for our amazing NHS at this vital time.”

William Hill’s Rupert Adams added: “It will help cheer the nation up.”

Former Channel 4 Racing host Nick Luck will host the TV show with Richard Pitman, Alice Plunkett and commentator Stewart Machin.

Legendary jockey Sir AP Mccoy said: “The virtual version is a great initiative and clearly for a good cause.”