Duke of Richmond apologises for 'unprecedented' brawl during opening meeting

Goodwood Racecourse members have received an apology from the track's owner, the Duke of Richmond, and a pledge to do "whatever is necessary" to ensure there will be no repeat of the violence that marred last Saturday's race meeting.

Amid sickening scenes, which have been widely shared on social media, a man on the ground was seen being kicked in the head during fighting that Sussex Police have estimated involved around 50 people.

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses to one of the worst examples of public disorder on a British racecourse and the Duke, who was at the meeting, has moved to reassure track patrons that the matter was being taken seriously.

He said: "I'm very sorry some of you experienced the intolerable incident at our opening Saturday fixture over the weekend.

"The vast majority of our racegoers behave impeccably at all of our race meetings, but sadly on Saturday a small minority spoilt the day for those enjoying the sunshine and the racing.

"I was there with my family and was shocked by what happened, which is unprecedented at Goodwood Racecourse, and which was very challenging for even the most experienced of security teams.

"However, the safety and enjoyment of all of our racegoers is our utmost priority and I'll be reviewing immediately what happened extensively with my team and Sussex Police.

"We'll do whatever is necessary, and invest whatever is required, to maintain the safety and security of all of our members and customers."

Police who were called to the track said they received reports of "multiple altercations" which resulted in four people being taken to hospital with serious injuries and several others suffered minor injuries. The four taken to hospital were subsequently discharged.

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