Injunction sought to prevent "reckless" disruption from Epsom Derby protestors

22 May 2023 , 16:54

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A scene from Derby Day at Epsom Racecourse (Image: PA)

An injunction is being sought by Epsom's owners to prevent "reckless" disruption from protestors at the Derby.

The Jockey Club has lodged an application to the High Court after Animal Rising vowed to sabotage its feature Flat meeting.

The Derby, scheduled for June 3, is the leading Classic race for colts – worth £850,650 to the winner and a future career at stud.

But protest group Animal Rising, whose members delayed the start of the Grand National, says the summer contest is their next target. They claim up to 1,000 people will go to Epsom next month and support their activities.

The Jockey Club has given them an area near the entrance to protest peacefully, but racing chiefs have now gone a step further to try and protect the two-day fixture.

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The proposed injunction covers various aspects, including stopping individuals from entering the racetrack and carrying out intentionally disruptive acts.

If granted, individuals in breach could be subject to proceedings for contempt of court, which may lead to a fine and/or imprisonment.

Animal rising protesters outside the gates at Aintree (PA)

The High Court hearing has been scheduled to take place on May 26.

Nevin Truesdale, Chief Executive of The Jockey Club, said: "We respect everyone’s right to peaceful and lawful protest and with that in mind have offered Animal Rising a space for this purpose directly outside the racecourse during The Derby Festival.

“However, Animal Rising have made it explicitly clear that they intend to breach security and access the track itself in an attempt to stop racing taking place and it is our duty and obligation to do everything we can to protect everyone’s safety and prevent a repeat of the illegal and reckless protests we saw at Aintree in April.

“As such the decision to apply for an injunction is a course of action we have been forced to take and is the result of careful consideration following consultation with Surrey Police and a number of stakeholders. If successful, this would be just one of a range of robust security measures we are implementing to ensure the event can go ahead safely."

Melissa Jones