The annual Grand National horse race is one of the biggest sporting events in the UK, attracting thousands of spectators each year. However, this year’s event has been surrounded by controversy as three people were arrested on suspicion of planning ‘co-ordinated disruption’ at the race. The arrests have raised concerns about safety and security measures in place for the event, and have left many questioning the motives behind the potential disruption. In this article, we will delve deeper into the incident and analyze its impact on the future of the Grand National race.
Merseyside Police has arrested three people in connection with potential co-ordinated disruption at Aintree Racecourse, as animal rights activists gathered outside the annual Grand National Festival’s final day. A 33-year-old woman from the London area was arrested in Greater Manchester on suspicion of conspiracy to cause public nuisance, whilst a 25-year-old woman from London and a man were arrested outside the racecourse later in the morning on suspicion of the same offence. The protest followed the announcement by climate and animal rights group Animal Rising that it planned to scale fences and enter the track in a bid to stop the race from starting. Nathan McGovern, a spokesperson for the group, outlined its wider aims: “This is very much about a bigger picture of recognising that, in a nation of animal lovers, we’re not really living up to those values with our actions.”
Animal Rising’s plans for the Grand National became public when an undercover reporter for the Mail on Sunday attended a meeting earlier this month. The group said it planned to use ladders and bolt cutters to get through Aintree’s perimeter fencing. Activists also said they would block traffic by performing a slow march along Ormskirk Road, the main access route. Despite the warning, around 30 animal rights protesters staged a demonstration outside Aintree Racecourse including Dora Hargitai, 37, a volunteer with Animal Rising, who told reporters: “The race has to stop. Today and forever.”
The Grand National Festival, one of the highlights of the British racing calendar, attracts over 150,000 visitors over three days. This year’s festival has been marred by controversy following the death of Envoye Special, ridden by James King, in the Foxhunters’ Chase just after 4pm on Thursday. It is the 60th horse to die at Aintree in the past 23 years. Animal Rising, which recently changed its name from Animal Rebellion, has shifted its focus away from the umbrella of Extinction Rebellion to concentrate more specifically on animal rights.
Responding to the protest, an Aintree Racecourse spokesperson said: “We respect the right to peaceful protest but sincerely hope that Animal Rising reflect on whether their proposed actions are legitimate and responsible.” The spokesperson added that the protests could endanger the horses they purport to protect, as well as jockeys, officials and protesters themselves. A British Horseracing Authority spokesperson echoed those views, stating: “While we respect the rights of anyone to protest safely and legally, we condemn any action which is illegal, especially if it puts at risk the safety of horses, jockeys, officials or fans.”
Merseyside Police provided reassurance, saying: “We respect the right to peaceful protest and expression of views, but criminal behaviour and disorder will not be tolerated and will be dealt with robustly.” The force has been working with The Jockey Club and other partners to ensure public safety at the event, with Chief Superintendent Claire Richards stating: “We will have increased patrols in the area to ensure that the intention of the peaceful protesters is not exploited by those who may seek to commit crime and we continue to work with partners to ensure that the events pass off safely.”
