Yesterday's Virtual Grand National has raised more than £2.6million for NHS Charities Together.
As the real Grand National had to be scrapped due to the coronavirus, the decision was made to broadcast a virtual event, which was watched by millions and saw Potter's Corner win at 18-1.
Bookmakers offered to donate their profits from the race to NHS Charities Together - an umbrella organisation that represents more than 140 NHS charities.
The Betting and Gaming Council, which arranged for the funds to be brought together, is hopeful the final donation could rise with some winners offering to chip in their prize.
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Michael Dugher, chief executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, said: "We are overwhelmed with the public support for the virtual Grand National and the support shown for NHS Charities Together.
"When the nation was in much need of some light relief, millions joined in the fun in honour of one of Britain's greatest sporting events and helped raise a fantastic amount for our brave heroes in the NHS."
Coral spokesperson Simon Clare said: "The Virtual Grand National has exceeded everyone's wildest expectations. There was nothing virtual about the feel-good factor this race generated and the fantastic sum raised for a great cause."
The CGI race, which has actually been going for three years, simulates the course at Aintree, using algorithms to factor in weather conditions, recent form, form on the track, weight, age and more.
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And this year, those who don't usually gamble may well have been tempted to have a flutter as all proceeds were going directly towards those working at the frontline during the coronavirus crisis.
Almost five million people tuned in to watch the event, which was broadcast on ITV and loads of people even got themselves all dressed up as they though were off for a day at the races.
Speaking after the event yesterday, Dugher said: "I am proud that so many BGC members, up and down the country, are supporting in so many different ways the national effort to combat COVID-19, including here by contributing all of their race profits to NHS Charities Together.
"I'm sorry we couldn't have the real Grand National to find out if Potters Corner would have won or whether it would have been an historic three in a row for Tiger Roll, but at this time of need, the nation used the day to come together and back our NHS."
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The Betting and Gaming Council said the profits from bets made in Ireland will go to Irish charities, including the Irish Red Cross.
Let's all bring some positivity, support and fun to anyone who might find themselves in isolation as a result of the coronavirus spread. Need some entertainment? Join Isolation Nation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/coronasupport/
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Coronavirus