24 due in court following Scottish Grand National protest
Members of Animal Rising protestors breached the fences at Ayr Racecourse on Saturday, in an attempt to disrupt the race
Last updated 23rd Apr 2023
24 people are expected to appear in court in Ayr in June after animal rights activists broke on to the racecourse shortly before the start of the Scottish Grand National on Saturday afternoon.
A number of protesters from Animal Rising had managed to make their way on to the South Ayrshire racecourse ahead of the Scottish Grand National in a bid to stop the £200,000 race.
Assistant chief constable Tim Mairs said they had "climbed under and over fences and made their way towards the track", but that a "prompt and professional response by stewards and Police Scotland" stopped any disputation to the event.
They were all later released and have been charged with breach of the peace.
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"Following this, there was a further attempt to disrupt a later race involving a smaller group of protesters," he said.
"Both incidents resulted in people being safely removed and no injuries have been reported.
Police statement following disruption
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs said: "Around 3.20pm on Saturday, 22 April, just before the main Scottish Grand National event at Ayr Racecourse, a large group of protesters climbed under and over fences and made their way towards the track.
“A prompt and professional response by stewards and Police Scotland officers prevented this group from causing any disruption. As a result, the race was completed successfully and without further issue.
“Following this, there was a further attempt to disrupt a later race involving a smaller group of protesters.
“Both incidents resulted in people being safely removed and no injuries have been reported.
"Overall, there have been 25 arrests so far across the day and enquires are continuing.
"I would like to commend the work of the officers and stewards who responded swiftly to intervene and prevent further escalation.
"We worked closely with the event organisers and other partners ahead of the Scottish Grand National to ensure a proportionate plan was in place to keep people safe and facilitate peaceful protest.”