Epsom officials will put in operation their biggest ever security measures for tomorrow’s race amid fears of protests on Derby day.
Animal rights protestors delayed the start of the Grand National back in April after breaking into Aintree while Just Stop Oil activists have made public protests at a variety of sporting events from the World Snooker Championship to the Premiership Rugby final.
The Jockey Club, which owns Epsom racecourse, has already been granted a High Court injunction meaning protestors would have to pay for any damage caused and face potential imprisonment.
Nevin Truesdale, chief executive of the Jockey Club, said the measures would be like none seen before at the race.
He said: “Surrey Police have been and continue to be incredibly helpful and we will have a security operation in place at the Derby festival this weekend will be like no other we have seen in the past.”
He also defended the wellbeing of the horses saying it had “never been safer” for horses.
Meanwhile, Tim Bonner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance said: “The injunction sought by the Jockey Club could be game changing if it demonstrates that carrying out these acts of unlawful disruption will no longer be tolerated and those who put themselves and others in danger will face serious criminal sanctions.”
