Paddy Power, the popular Irish bookmaker, has extended a serious invitation to the President of the United States, Barack Obama to attend the Aintree Grand National horse races in April next year.

Obama has announced to the Prime Minister Gordon Brown that he will be visiting the UK as part of his attendance in the G20 summit and Paddy Power is taking bets (25/1) that Mr. President will stop over in Ireland.

“He's a busy man, but even Presidents need to let their hair down, and where better than at the Grand National!” said a Paddy Power representative. “We'll treat him to a slap up meal, a rake of pints and a couple of free bets - who knows, he might even back the winner! Afterwards, we'll take him to John Alridge's bar where the pints are always on me!”

It remains to be seen whether President Obama is ready to delve into his Irish heritage next year or not!