Bettors Forum demands action on non-runners as rates climb

The Horseracing Bettors Forum yesterday called on the BHA to take a harder line on non-runners as it emerged there has been a sharp rise in the non-runner rate this year.

The HBF demanded a cut in the level of withdrawals trainers are allowed to make by self-certification and rules to prevent horses pulled out because of the going being allowed to run on similar ground for a significant time afterwards.

The group, set up last year to represent the perceived interests of those who bet on British racing, said it was also likely to recommend that reasons for non-runners in major handicaps which affect betting markets should be thoroughly investigated.