Scottish Grand National: Aye Racecourse on ‘alert’ after sporting protests but ‘no specific threat’

Ayr Racecourse will remain “vigilant” ahead of this weekend’s Scottish Grand National after a week of protests at major sporting events elsewhere in the UK. Last week’s Grand National in Aintree was delayed by animal rights activists, some of whom managed to gain entry to the course.

And on Tuesday, the World Snooker Championships in Sheffield were disrupted by climate activists, one of whom released a pack of orange paint on the famous green cloth. The actions drew condemnation in the sport and raised concerns about repeated protests at other events.

Around 17,000 people will descend on Ayr this Saturday April 22nd to watch the race, which takes place over four miles. A spokesman for Ayr Racecourse told the Scottish Daily Express: “We will be very vigilant for any disruption that may occur”.

READ MORE: Holyrood steps up security checks on visitors following color protests at snooker

However, bosses have stressed that they are not aware of any specific threat. Managing director David Brown told the Racing Post: “We are in contact with local authorities and any information and updates they receive will determine what appropriate steps we take.

“My understanding at the moment is that they are not aware of any specific threats. That could change, and we certainly won’t be complacent.

“I’m sure it will be the same for most sporting events, especially given what happened at snooker just two days after Aintree. People have a right to protest, but the problem is when it starts affecting the way other people live.”