Grand National-winning jockeys Sir Anthony McCoy, Rachael Blackmore, and Mick Fitzgerald, alongside other riders, brought festive cheer to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool earlier this week.
Joining them were jumps jockey Danny Mullins, Flat riders Harry Davies and Ross Coakley, and recently retired Franny Norton. The group handed out gifts, spent time with children receiving treatment, and met their families.
Alder Hey has a long-standing relationship with Aintree Racecourse, hosting visits from jockeys annually ahead of the Grand National. However, this marked the first Christmas visit from current and former members of the weighing room.
McCoy, a 20-time champion jump jockey and patron of Alder Hey, reflected on the importance of the hospital:
“Alder Hey is somewhere I’ve been visiting for over 20 years. The incredible work they do—both in raising funds and the care provided by the nurses and doctors—makes it the most fabulous place.”
For Merseyside-born Franny Norton, who retired from a 36-year career in September, this was his first visit to the hospital. He found the experience deeply moving:
“It was a huge privilege to visit Alder Hey for the first time. The dedication of everyone here is awe-inspiring, as is the courage of the children undergoing treatment.”
Gill Kennedy, celebrity, VIP, and events manager at Alder Hey, expressed her gratitude for the visit:
“Having our friends from The Jockey Club visit at Christmas was such a lovely treat. Their time spent handing out presents and talking with families meant so much to everyone here. Thank you for bringing the holiday spirit to Alder Hey.”
Aintree Racecourse will continue its support during its Boxing Day meeting, encouraging racegoers to bring presents to be distributed to children and families in the local community through its partnerships.
This visit highlights the strong bond between the racing community and Alder Hey, bringing joy and hope during the festive season.