POLICE have promised a ‘robust’ crackdown on the vegan mob hellbent on hijacking the Grand National.
A plan by Animal Rebellion to have 100 eco-activists storm the world’s most famous race was uncovered by a reporter.
Police have promised a ‘robust’ presence at this year’s Grand National after a plan to sabotage the race by Animal Rebellion was uncovered
They plotted to cut down security fences and use ladders to storm Aintree.
Once in, they said they would glue themselves together in a human barricade and sit across the course.
But Merseyside Police, who in previous years have been pictured patrolling the racecourse with guns, said they are prepared for any eventuality.
A spokesperson said: “Merseyside Police has a robust policing plan in place for Aintree, as it does for any major public event, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved.
“We have been working with our partners, including The Jockey Club, for a number of months in the build up to this year’s festival to ensure that any necessary plans and processes are in place to deal with any incidents that may arise and to prevent any significant or ongoing disruption to racegoers and local residents and businesses.
“We respect the right to peaceful protest and expression of views, but public order or criminal offences will not be tolerated and will be dealt with robustly.”
Four climate-change protesters chained themselves to a racecourse rail on the final day of Royal Ascot in 2021.
While six activists stormed the track before the Derby at Epsom last year.
The Mail on Sunday said Animal Rebellion protesters hoped their planned action would spark similar displays at Ascot.
But a racecourse spokesperson told the Racing Post: “We work extremely closely with the police and other local authorities in the run up to Royal Ascot.
“Everyone has a right to protest and if the police do not think they are causing a disturbance, especially off site, we will not intervene.
“Anything that impacts the operation on site will be dealt with appropriately, as was the case in 2021 when the Extinction Rebellion protestors were quickly apprehended without any impact on racing.”
