Police have issued an update after animal rights activists were arrested in a huge protest at Aintree racecourse on Saturday (April 15).
A large number of protesters attempted to gain entry to the Aintree Racecourse track, which delayed the start of the flagship Grand National. Scores of protesters climbed over fences and stormed the M57, with at least two also fixing themselves to a jump at the racecourse using glue and lock-on devices.
Merseyside Police confirmed that they arrested a total of 118 people, aged between 18 and 66-years-old, who had travelled from as far as Kent, London, Swansea, Glasgow, Falkirk and Southampton.
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They were arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including conspiracy to cause public nuisance, obstructing highways and possession of controlled drugs. Of the 118 arrested, police confirmed 65 of those were taken into custody and are being processed and will be bailed pending further enquiries.
The news comes as the RSPCA has now called on racing authorities to conduct an 'urgent' review into the horse deaths that occurred at this year’s Grand National. Three horses died at the three-day festival this weekend – prompting campaigners to call for jump racing to be banned.
Issuing a new statement, Assistant Chief Constable Paul White said: “The Grand National race was temporarily delayed for a short period of time while officers dealt with protestors who attempted to gain entry onto Aintree racecourse, and this was across the whole site which covers an extensive perimeter of around 5km which in parts is open land.
“As you can understand, the safety and wellbeing of everyone is of paramount concern when dealing with large-scale public events such as this, and this includes those who are protesting. To put into perspective, it is estimated that around 70,000 visitors attended the Grand National and the event went safely with an enjoyable atmosphere despite the short interruption from protestors.
“We had a robust plan in place to deal with incidents, and as such our officers and security staff were able to quickly deal with the situation in a safe and appropriate manner. It is also important to add that we respect the right to a peaceful protest and expression of views, but criminal behaviour and disorder will not be tolerated and sadly this is what took place at yesterday’s event in an attempt to disrupt the race which resulted in the arrests."
“I would like to reiterate our sincere thanks to members of the public for not only their patience but also their support while we dealt with the protestors. Our continued gratitude also goes to mutual aid officers from Greater Manchester Police, North Wales Police, Cheshire Police and Durham Police and our partners at Aintree racecourse, security providers and the Jockey Club for their assistance on the day.”
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