Harnden: this is a battle we must fight together

PETER HARNDEN has called for unity in the sport to combat the ongoing campaigns against greyhound racing.

The GBGB Trainers’ representative and Towcester handler proposed that governing bodies on both sides of the Irish Sea work together in light of the impending bans in Wales and Scotland.

He said yesterday: “Let’s work together. Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI) needs our support and we need them. This is a battle we must fight together. The activists attacking this sport spout misinformation and lies against us. We must do more and be proactive rather than reactive.”

Harnden was also keen to praise the efforts of GBGB chairman Sir Philip Davies last week during his appearance on GB News. He said: “I thought Philip was brilliant, that is exactly the type of approach needed from greyhound racing.

“We must not shy away from these debates and discussions. As a sport and an industry, greyhound racing has nothing to hide. It is one of the safest sports in the world.

“Social media is awash with false claims and nonsense from those seeking to end the sport.

“Right now, I see trainers, kennel hands, and owners single-handedly trying to defend the sport and call out the misinformation.

“As admirable as that is from those individuals, we need to be more organised and do more collectively.”

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