National campaign group Animal Aid has called for Catterick racecourse to be closed down after four horses died there in just three days of racing this month.
In a posting on the group’s website, Animal Aid horse racing consultant, Dene Stansall: “Animal Aid is bringing the horse deaths to light to prevent them from being swept aside as if they are of no consequence.
“For too long there has been a “business as usual” approach to horse deaths within racing circles. It is deeply irresponsible of the racecourse management and the British Horseracing Authority to continue with racing while so many horses are dying – accompanied by an official silence. Catterick Racecourse should shut down with immediate effect.”
A spokeswoman for the racecourse said it took safety very seriously. She told the D&S: “Catterick Racecourse takes the death of any horse extremely seriously and it is thoroughly investigated.
“We are quite satisfied that the racing surface together with the hurdles and fences at jump race meetings are prepared and presented for race days to the highest possible standards.”
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