Epsom Derby steps up security after threats from 1,000 Animal Rising protesters

Protesters were removed from the Epsom Downs track ahead of last year's Derby. Photo: PA Wire/Tim Goode

Epsom Derby organizers are rushing to expand safety plans after animal rights activists vowed to protest more than the chaotic scenes at the Grand National.

Animal Rising, an offshoot of Extinction Rebellion, says 1,000 protesters will gather early next month as part of ongoing efforts to sabotage events.

As with Aintree, the group told the Jockey Club that its goal is to “prevent racing”, claiming that it “protects animals from harm and exploitation”. ;.

Therefore, the organizers are working closely with the Surrey County Police to identify any potential vulnerabilities on the track. Security experts say Friday 2 June and Saturday 3 June are expected to see a record number of officers at the Derby Festival.

Police have not yet commented on the planned disruption, but the Jockey Club, which runs the Epsom Downs Racecourse, said: “Obviously part of planning for any event is to ensure that all possible incidents and illegal protests like the one we've seen are covered.” the Grand National in Aintree will not be tolerated. The safety of our spectators and all our participants, be it horses or humans, will always be our top priority and any attempt to disrupt our events will be dealt with quickly and decisively.

“Our security teams will have a strong and visible presence, centrally controlled with extensive video surveillance in place, and we will work closely with the Surrey Police who will be in attendance that day.”

Continued crashes will spark new racing anger after Sandy Thomson, fatality coach at Hill Sixteen's first fence, said last month's Grand National's 15-minute start delay was a major factor contributing to the horse's crash .

“I don’t doubt it,” Thomson said. “That was the cause of the problems we had.”

A total of 118 people were arrested during the chaotic scenes as animal rights activists stormed the track and tried to disrupt the race.

However, of the plans for the Epsom Derby, Animal Rising said: "We are taking these actions to protect horses from harm and draw attention to our broken relationship with animals, not just horses. races, but also in our food system"