LIVERPOOL'S ladies turned out for day one of the John Smith's Grand National Festival as Aintree racecourse celebrated everything Scouse.

Liverpool Day kicked off the three-day event with racing, fashion and live music as dozens of runners and riders contested the world famous steeplechase.

Women glammed up in their best hats, platform shoes and summer dresses to compete in the style stakes.

Alongside yesterday's racing, events took place to mark the city's culture and heritage.

Dancers and stilt-walkers entertained and Matalan fashion shows drew crowds throughout the day.

Tanned bikini-clad models took to the stage in the Style Enclosure in Aintree's iconic Red Rum Garden.

Among those enjoying a day at the racecourse was Princess Anne, who is a patron of the Injured Jockeys Fund.

Racing pundit John McCririck was also spotted sporting his trademark deerstalker hat and sideburns.

Also among the crowds were sports presenter Clare Balding, Liverpool snooker legend John Parrott, radio's Colin Murray and former Blue Peter presenter Richard Bacon.