ALCOHOL has been banned from the Merseyrail network during the three day Grand National Festival at Aintree after drunken racegoers fell on to train tracks in recent years.

Tens of thousands of people are expected to use the rail lines to attend the race meetings.

British Transport Police warn that racegoers who have downed too much alcohol do pose a risk to other travellers, staff and themselves.

Superintendent Malcolm McKinnon, officer in charge at Liverpool, said: "There have been a number of incidents in which drunken people have fallen over and injured themselves at Aintree station following a day of racing.

“We have even seen people falling off the platform and on to the tracks.

“Thankfully no-one has been seriously injured, but the increased frequency of trains - as well as the 'live' third rail - means anyone who falls onto the tracks is lucky to escape without significant injuries.

“It is vitally important, therefore, that anyone who has a drink does so responsibly and behaves in a sensible manner.

“We don’t want to ruin anyone’s enjoyment of the festival, but it is vitally important that everyone stays safe during the three days."

Merseyrail run an enhanced service throughout the three days to help crowds get to and from the meeting.

Superintendent McKinnon added: “We want to make sure they do so safely, without causing problems for themselves or others.

"In recent years the vast majority of people have enjoyed a day of racing – including a few drinks – and headed back to the city without any fuss.

“Sadly a small minority take the drinking a little too far and, when drunk, have been aggressive and abusive toward staff and other rail users.

“On those few occasions we have had to step in and take action against the aggressors – spoiling their day at Aintree."