Protesters are removed from the track ahead of the 2022 Epsom Derby. Photo: PA/Tim Goode
The Epsom Derby will have the biggest security operation in the event's history amid fears that protesters will try to disrupt the race.
Nevin Truesdale, chief executive of the Jockey Club, said the accepted the package is unlike any other in the past.
The club previously obtained a High Court injunction against Animal Rising demonstrators who threatened to disrupt the Betfred Derby on Saturday.
The bid was filed by the club that owns Epsom Downs because it believes the organization has made it clear it intends to breach security at the Surrey Racecourse in order to stage a devastating protest.
Animal Rising was also thwarted. Grand National at Aintree in April, when the race was delayed by just over 10 minutes after demonstrators entered the track and were forced to be removed by police.
The Countryside Alliance said it hoped the penalties imposed anyone who violated the injunction will serve as a deterrent to protesters at other sporting events in the future.
The exact security measures have not been confirmed by the Jockey Club but it is believed they spent an additional £150,000 securing the race.
Mr Truesdale said: Epsom Downs, extremely difficult, the Surrey Police have been and continue to be of incredible help and we will provide a security operation at the Derby Festival this weekend like no other we have seen in the past.»
He said the sport has «never been safer» for horses, adding: «We love these equine athletes, these superstars who get fantastic care behind the scenes.
During the Sky News debate On Thursday morning, Animal Rising spokeswoman Claudia Penna Rojas was asked if she was willing to break the law.
She replied: «I'm willing to do what's necessary to do what's right, these animals and try to prevent harming them.»
Police pull protester away from Animal Rising movement during protests at Grand National Credit: The Telegraph/David Rose
The Jockey Club officials fear that the protest would endanger competitors, spectators and horses, although they said they would not waive their right to protest peacefully and offered Animal Rising a spot near the entrance to the racetrack for the demonstration.
An injunction issued by High Court Judge Sir Anthony Mann forbids people from entering the racetrack and doing other things with the intent and/or effect of disrupting races.
Such actions include intentionally placing objects on the racetrack, entering the parade circle, entering and/or leaving horses in the path of the parade circle and the racecourse without permission, as well as deliberately endangering any person on the Hippodrome at Epsom Downs during the two-day Derby festival.
Those who violate the court order can be sued for contempt of court and fined or jailed.
Tim Bonner, Countryside Alliance's chief executive stated: «The ban requested by the Jockey Club could be a game-changer if it demonstrates that these acts of illegal destruction are no longer tolerated, and that those who put themselves and others at risk face severe criminal sanctions.»
A police spokesman for Surrey said officers are «well trained to respond to protests» and will be in touch throughout the day.
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