Grand National: Leicester student designs prestigious trophy

Student Ritik Tailor (left) with the 2024 Randox Grand National trophy with silversmith Cara Murphy

A Leicester student has designed the trophy which will be presented to the winner of the Grand National.

Ritik Tailor, 21, a graphic design student at De Montfort University (DMU) won a competition for his concept of the 2024 trophy.

The famous steeplechase will see 34 horses take on 30 fences at Aintree at 16:00 BST on Saturday.

Mr Tailor, who is on a placement with race sponsor Randox, said winning the prize was a "great achievement".

The student's design features a double helix, representing DNA, rising from the base of the trophy with a silver prancing at the top.

The trophy will be handed to the winner of the Grand National on Saturday

"It is a great achievement for me both personally and professionally," he said.

"Being entrusted with such an important design at the start of my placement is quite rewarding.

"It is a great feeling knowing something I have created will be woven into the history of such a prestigious sporting event."

The winning owner will receive the full-size version of the trophy, with the winning trainer, jockey and groom receiving a miniature version.

Elizabeth Heeney, graphic design team lead at Randox, said: "Ritik's trophy design being chosen over others from multiple designers is a testament to his creativity and talent."