 The camera will be fitted to a Merseyside Police helicopter |
Race-goers at the Grand National will be protected from criminals by new technology which can identify someone from the sky. The Spotterscope, a high zoom camera, is fitted to a Merseyside police helicopter and will be at the races in Aintree for the first time.
The system is so accurate it can identify a person's face while hovering more than 800ft above them.
The 159th Grand National festival runs from Thursday to Saturday.
The Spotterscope can also identify the registration numbers of every car it passes.
Police said this will help them stop criminals who are using vehicles illegally on the roads around the racecourse.
Extra trains
Security will be tight at the venue, with bag searches and metal detecting scanners.
Ch Supt Dave Lewis said: "There will be a wide range of police tactics, many of which will not be overt, to ensure the safety of those attending the event."
Extra trains are being operated by Merseytravel for race-goers, between Liverpool and Aintree, with many stations having free park and ride schemes.
Police are warning of traffic delays around the course. Melling Road, from Seeds Lane up to and including Aintree Lane, is shut until after the festival.
Warbreck Moor, Greenwich Road, Hall Lane, Redlands Road, Lyncott Road and Roosevelt Drive may also be affected by closures or delays.
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