And they’re kicking off! Brawl breaks out at Epsom Derby as racegoers throw punches amid chaotic scenes on Ladies Day
- Pictures showed smartly dressed racegoers throwing punches at Surrey course
- Fights broke out as women showed off their outfits and fascinator hats
There were chaotic scenes at the Epsom Derby on Ladies Day today when a brawl kicked off between revellers.
Pictures showed smartly dressed racegoers throwing punches as things got heated at the annual sporting event in Surrey.
One man was seen with a bloodied nose as he fended off another brawler who was wearing a suit and velvet loafers.
It is not clear what kicked off the brawl, which took place as Frankie Dettori rode to victory on horse Emily Upjohn in the Dahlbury Coronation Cup.
The fights did not stop glamorous women from showing off their outfits and fascinator hats as they soaked up the atmosphere at the famous racecourse.
There were chaotic scenes at the Epsom Derby on Ladies Day today when a brawl kicked off between revellers
A spokesperson for the event said after the fight: ‘Our event security team responded swiftly and decisively to an incident on course earlier this afternoon, which resulted in two racegoers being ejected.
‘Responsible behaviour from spectators is a condition of attendance.
‘We have a clear code of conduct and take a zero-tolerance approach to any form of anti-social behaviour.’
It comes after it emerged that organisers of the Derby spent up to £150,000 on additional security measures to stop the race from being disrupted by animal rights activists.
The Jockey Club, which owns Epsom Downs Racecourse, are prepared to contend with threats from campaign group Animal Rising after their abortive attempts to halt the Grand National in April.
The activists have described the course as ‘unpoliceable’ and predicted that ‘up to 1,000’ protestors could attend the race this year.
Speaking to Good Morning Britain on today, The Jockey Club’s chief executive Nevin Truesdale also confirmed that the organisers had secured a high court injunction which will make it easier to prosecute those planning on disrupting the race.
Pictures showed smartly dressed racegoers throwing punches as things got heated at the annual sporting event in Surrey
Glamorous racegoers donned all their finery to descend on Epson Racecourse this morning in celebration of Ladies Day today
Peace out, Epsom! This trio larked about with each other while posing for photos and kissed their pal on the cheek
Activists who enter the track, throw items, or cause disruption to the race could face a hefty fine or imprisonment.
Truesdale shared details of the additional security measures planned for the afternoon, saying: ‘You will see what is probably going to be the most significant security operation the Derby has ever seen.
A lot more security staff, a lot more police, we’ve got extra fencing up in certain areas that we wouldn’t normally use.’
Animal Rising have been vocal about a planned meeting outside the course, which will involve fun family activities – including an eggless spoon race – alongside protests.
A spokesperson for the group, Ben Newman shared that: ‘There will be disruption which creates the conversation that we’ve been having for the last couple of months.’
Campaigners will be looking to disrupt events throughout the summer flat racing season, and could target the first Royal Ascot of King Charles’ reign later this month.
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