Twenty-five people were arrested after animal rights protesters tried to disrupt the Scottish Grand National on Saturday.
Animal Rising claimed dozens of supporters had arrived at the track and posted a video on their Twitter feed showing at least four activists breaking down the fence around Ayr Racecourse, with some arriving at the track.
None of them successfully latched onto the jumps and gates and were unable to cancel or delay the big race, which was won by pre-race favorite Kitty’s Light.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, of Police Scotland, said a “quick and professional response from Police Scotland administrators and officers prevented this group from causing any disruption”.
He also revealed that there had been a further attempt to disrupt a later race with a smaller group of protesters.
Mr Mairs said: “Both incidents resulted in people being safely evacuated and no injuries have been reported.
“In total there have been 25 arrests throughout the day and inquiries are ongoing.”
The protesters could not delay the race
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Animal Rising’s Sarah McCaffrey said last week’s protest against the Grand National at Aintree had started a “crucial conversation about our relationship with animals and nature”.
“Today we continue this conversation. As a society, we love animals, but we have to find a way to take care of them without hurting them,” said the protester.
“This conversation is particularly important in Scotland, where we have so much potential for nature and wildlife to thrive.
“We can all build a world we’re proud to be a part of. An end to horse racing, as well as a transition to a plant-based food system, are key elements of this kinder and safer future.”
Ayr Racecourse general manager David Brown praised the swift action of police and track safety teams.
“The race has been on time, there have been no noticeable delays and the professionalism of the team here in Scotland was a credit to them, they dealt with it very efficiently,” he said.
“It was a great race and a great story, for Christian Williams to win it for the second year in a row with Kitty’s Light, having finished second last year. I think for me this is the highlight race in Scotland and everything came to a halt. time.”
Last Saturday, more than 110 people they were arrested for criminal damage and public nuisance offences after trying to stop the Grand National at Aintree.
Nine protesters arrived at the racetrack and tried to cling to the fences. The race was delayed 15 minutes by his actions.
