Sefton Council aim to restrict ticket touts ahead of Grand National

Sefton Council in Liverpool are looking to introduce moves to restrict ticket touts at the Grand National meeting at Aintree.

The move follows a similar action being implemented at Cheltenham racecourse where the Festival crowd in particular had become weary of being badgered by touts.

The Local Authority are proposing to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) which would make it an offence within a designated area to sell, offer for sale or advertise tickets for the three day event.

Sefton Council want to implement proposals to limit ticket touts at the Grand National

Failing to comply with the order would result in ticket touts being required to leave the area for up to 24 hours and will be handed a £75 fixed penalty notice.

A consultation will now run until March 10 with residents being asked for their views on the proposed PSPO.

Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regulation and Compliance, said: ‘Ticket touting at the Grand National is an ongoing issue and we want to curb this unpleasant practice.

‘Touts can be intimidating and their behaviour may cause distress to members of the public and racegoers during what should be a completely enjoyable experience.

‘We know through evidence provided to us that there has been a significant increase in the number of touts operating during the event over the last four years.”

Ward Councillors, Aintree Parish Council, The Jockey Club and local businesses will also be asked to give their views on the consultation.

Touts could now be subject to a Public Space Protection Order among other restrictions