National treasures

THE most important race at Aintree yesterday was to get ready for Ladies Day - the biggest fashion event in the racing calendar.

- Chris Riches

Among those going all-out glam were a trio of screen queens dressed as Hollywood's leading ladies.

Biddy Maloney, 15, wore a purple creation based on Kate Winslet in Titanic, Holly Samantha, 23, was in a Marilyn Monroe-inspired white polka-dot number, while Emmy Slade, 22, had a Holly Golightly-style dress from Audrey Hepburn's Breakfast At Tiffany's.

All outfits were made by North West designer Christine Atelier. Emmy said: "I feel really glamorous. Just being here is a thrill to be honest."

Another race-goer arrived in her wedding dress after getting married in the morning.