Robust measures in place at Epsom Derby to prevent Grand National repeat

22 May 2023 , 13:31

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Animal rising protesters outside the gates at Aintree (Image: PA)

The Jockey Club says it has “robust security measures” in place to stop animal rights protestors disrupting next month’s Betfred Derby at Epsom.

In April the start of the Grand National at Aintree was delayed more than ten minutes by supporters of Animal Rising, with attempts to disrupt the Scottish National at Ayr the following weekend thwarted by police and security staff.

Officials from Epsom, which like Aintree is owned and run by the Jockey Club, have held meetings with Surrey Police to make sure everything possible is done to ensure the June 2-3 fixture runs smoothly.

The area which needs securing, includes public areas on the Hill where spectators on foot do not require tickets.

Last year a handful of protesters made it onto the track before, but were swiftly dealt with.

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Nevin Truesdale, chief executive of the Jockey Club, said: “As part of our planning for the Derby Festival, we have been working with Surrey Police to ensure we have a range of robust security measures in place to protect the safety of everyone at the event, especially our equine and human participants, which will always be our number one priority.

“While we completely respect anyone’s right to peaceful and lawful protest, we would condemn illegal and reckless plans to breach security in an effort to disrupt the action on the track and endanger the safety of the participants in the strongest possible terms.

“Thousands of people look forward to attending the Derby every year and millions more will be watching at home and around the world, so we look forward to staging what is not only an important event for the sport but an iconic moment in the British summer and a celebration of the thoroughbred.”

Jon Lees