Bookies across the nation have generously donated more than £2.6million to the NHS this past weekend thanks to a staggering number of punters having flutters on the Virtual Grand National.A simulated version of the Aintree classic was broadcast on ITV yesterday and it is believed to have drawn in over 4.8m people watching from their living rooms.The race was simulated to last four-and-a-half miles and was eventually won by 18/1 shot Potters Corner, with favourite Tiger Roll, a 5/1 price, back in fourth.Most betting companies allowed for wagers on the simulation and it was later reported that £2.6m of the spoils would be set aside for the NHS.The NHS has been in the limelight for what seems to be forever just lately given the coronavirus pandemic.The money raised by this event will go towards the fight against Covid-19 and aid in helping to roll out testing kits for people who are currently experiencing symptoms.Coral’s David Stevens explained: “We had no idea how popular the Virtual Grand National would be as it was a completely unique situation, with the virtual version replacing the real thing."But throughout Saturday it became apparent that millions of people were still having their annual flutter on this famous race.“The average stake per bet worked out at just over £2, which showed this virtual National really hit the spot in terms of providing a fun, one-off betting opportunity for so many people.

"And most importantly, all those small bets added up to a fantastic donation to NHS Charities Together.

"We are all seeing on a daily basis the amazing work the NHS are doing right now, so it’s entirely fitting that they are the real winners of this year’s virtual Grand National."

“We all missed the real National not taking place, but it was right that it didn’t, and its cancellation has led to something we can all be proud of.

"And the icing on the cake for us at Coral was watching the Coral Welsh Grand National winner Potters Corner win the race! Fingers-crossed he can come back and win it for real in 2021.”

This event seems to be just one of many ideas that have been put together in efforts to try and raise money for this unprecedented cause.