You may have seen it on TV, listened to it on radio, had a bet on the race or possibly even been to Aintree Racecourse - but have you ever ridden around the Grand National? The Royal Show (5-8 July at the NAC, Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire) is offering all visitors the unique chance to experience the thrills and spills of riding around the world's greatest steeplechase course - the Martell Grand National,

Aintree's Grand National simulator, inside the exciting Racing Village at the show, aims to give visitors a virtual reality experience of riding in the race. In the village, visitors will find out about the world of horseracing, discover the strict fitness and dieting regimes of jockeys, ride against friends and family on mechanical race horses and learn about the various feeding and training methods of race horses. There is even a full sized replica of Bechers Brook demonstrating the athleticism and courage needed by horse and jockey to jump such challenging obstacles.

The Racing Village, organised by the British Horseracing Board, will enable visitors to experience the thrills and spills of racing with the emphasis on fun and enjoyment. Through demonstrations, displays and talks from racing celebrities including jockeys, trainers and commentators they will see the magical 'Sport of Kings' come to life.

Karen Pearson, from the Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE), organisers of the Royal Show, says:

"The Racing Village gives everyone the chance to find out more about the world of racing and experience both the excitement of raceday and the day to day routines in a racing yard. Aintree's Grand National simulator promises to bring extra excitement and thrill to the Racing Village. I am sure everybody will love riding around the Grand National - I just hope nobody falls."

Ginny Lemarie, the British Horseracing Board's Marketing Executive, says:

"The BHB is delighted with the reception the Racing Village receives at the Royal Show and we look forward to returning to share the fun and excitement of horseracing with industry, punter and public alike."