Number of arrests made after protesters try to stop Scottish Grand National

Dan Barker, PA Scotland

Animal rights protesters stormed the track at Ayr Racecourse in Scotland in a bid to stop the Scottish Grand National.

Police Scotland made a number of arrests, with Animal Rising claiming around 25 of its supporters made their way on to the track.

The group said they were “attempting to attach themselves to jumps and gates” in an effort to cancel the race, which Christian Williams-trained Kitty’s Light went on to win.

We are responding to a protest which is ongoing at Ayr Racecourse this afternoon. A significant operation is underway to safely remove those involved. A number of arrests have been made and an increased police presence remains at the scene. pic.twitter.com/Hoz69Vjqp2

— Police Scotland (@PoliceScotland) April 22, 2023

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “We are responding to a protest which is ongoing at Ayr Racecourse this afternoon.

“A significant operation is under way to safely remove those involved.

“A number of arrests have been made and an increased police presence remains at the scene.”

It is the latest protest to target racing, with the Grand National at Aintree being delayed for around 15 minutes when animal rights activists made their way onto the track.

Scores of activists climbed fences and at least two fixed themselves to a jump using glue and lock-on devices. Some 118 people were arrested by Merseyside Police in total.