Virtual Grand National attracts almost 5 million viewers on ITV as funds raised for NHS coronavirus fight

Saturday's Virtual Grand National attracted a television audience of almost five million people, it has been confirmed.

With the 173rd running of the Grand National - scheduled to take place at Aintree yesterday - cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, the decision to run a simulated version of the world-famous steeplechase instead proved a very popular decision.

Welsh-trained 18-1 shot Potters Corner beat Walk In The Mill and Any Second Now to victory in the virtual spectacle, with favourite Tiger Roll - who would have been gunning for a third straight Grand National win in real life - crossing the line in fourth.

Bookmakers donated profits from the event to NHS Charities Together, providing a boost in the ongoing fight against Covid-19.

And it appears the race captured the imagination of fans left missing their usual fix of sporting action.

ITV said almost a third of all viewers watched the race, with the show peaking at 4.8m - 30 per cent of the overall television audience.

Across the programme, an average of 4.3m - a 28 per cent audience share - were watching.

Last year's virtual race - run as a precursor to the main event - was watched by 737k people and the actual Grand National by nearly 10m.

Programme makers Carm Productions were delighted with the broadcast, saying: "What an incredible few days it has been.

"We first aired the Virtual Grand National in 2017, and we feel honoured that it has been able to stand in for the Grand National at this difficult time.

"Let's hope it has entertained racegoers and the wider public. We also hope that it has been able to help raise funds to support the NHS at this important time.

"We would also like to thank ITV and The Jockey Club of their ongoing help and support."

Additional reporting by the Press Association.