Grand National protesters storm track at Aintree delaying race as cops swoop in | The Sun
GRAND National protesters stormed the track at Aintree 15 minutes before the race.
Cops swooped in after the group managed to get through the ring of steel and into the grounds.
Horses were being held in their paddocks – but are now being walked to the starting line.
The races this afternoon were delayed as some activists were led away in handcuffs.
Organiser Peter Scudamore said: "It's just part of what we have to go through.
"I'm sorry for the horses, the protesters doing this, well it affects the welfare of the horses."
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It's understood some protesters who didn't storm the track were attempting to chain themselves to the fences.
Others also tried gluing themselves down.
It comes after animal rights groups, who object to using horses for entertainment and sport, previously revealed their intentions to disrupt the famous Aintree event.
Three people were arrested this morning over a plot to protest the racing event.
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Merseyside Police confirmed the trio were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause public nuisance.
A woman, 25, was taken into custody around 11.10am around the man around 30 minutes later.
A 33-year-old woman from the London area was also taken in by cops.
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: "Merseyside Police has been working with The Jockey Club and other partners to keep people safe during the Grand National Festival.
“We are aware of some people planning to protest at the event. This has been factored into our plans.
"We respect the right to peaceful protest and expression of views, but criminal behaviour and disorder will not be tolerated and will be dealt with robustly."
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