All the Grand National jockeys were very proud to wear the Yellow Ribbon

THE Grand National was turned into a beacon of national pride yesterday as EVERY JOCKEY wore a News of the World Yellow Ribbon to support our Forces in the Gulf.

And minutes after winning, rider Barry Geraghty dismounted from Monty's Pass, kissed the Ribbon then spoke for the entire field and said: "This victory is dedicated to all our brave servicemen and women in Iraq.

"All the Grand National jockeys were very proud to wear the Yellow Ribbon."

It first became apparent that our campaign was taking the world's greatest steeplechase by storm when all 40 jockeys marched out of the weighing room and gathered for the traditional group photo.

Behind-the-scenes staff had helped turn their silks into a sea of fluttering yellow to wish our troops a safe return. There was even a giant Ribbon on the Aintree starting post.

Jockey Club spokesman John Maxse said: "We're right behind the News of the World's Yellow Ribbon campaign." Meanwhile, 6ft Ribbons were taken onto pitches before kick-offs between Bolton and Man City, and Charlton v Leeds. In rugby league, another stood behind the posts at St Helens v Leeds.

Our Yellow Ribbon campaign to back our Forces in the Gulf began last Sunday. So far we've received requests for 500,000 Ribbons. Backing our campaign, Prince Charles said this week: "I'm full of admiration for our servicemen and women so bravely carrying out their duties in the Gulf." A spokeswoman added: "The Prince of Wales is delighted to support your Yellow Ribbon campaign."

Former PM Baroness Thatcher, who led Britain during the 1982 Falklands War, told us: "Our Forces are once again showing the courage for which they have become known around the world. I'm delighted to wear my Yellow Ribbon and to support the News of the World's inspired campaign."

Chancellor Gordon Brown said: "We all know families with loved ones serving in Iraq. I congratulate the News of the World Yellow Ribbon campaign for giving us this opportunity to show our gratitude for the work the Armed Forces do."

Falklands hero Simon Weston said this week: "While I didn't support the war before it broke out, I'll wear my Ribbon with pride."

Shaun Rusling, chairman of the National Gulf Veterans and Families Association, told us: "The Yellow Ribbon campaign is very important."

Our heroes have been kept up to date about the campaign by Virgin Radio, which broadcasts shows in the Gulf via the British Forces Broadcasting Service. Virgin DJ Jezza Kyle said: "It's a great demonstration of support. We want them home safely as soon as possible."