Racing's leaders to meet on Tuesday in wake of Panorama investigation

British racing's ruling authority has called for a meeting with industry leaders in Britain and Ireland to tackle the issues raised in a BBC Panorama programme, named The Dark Side of Horseracing, broadcast on Monday night.

The 30-minute documentary investigated deaths of racehorses after the end of their racing careers and alleged detrimental welfare standards in slaughterhouses.

The Panorama investigation suggested that some animals had been transferred from Ireland to the UK despite being seriously injured – a practice described as unacceptable by British racing – while former Cheltenham winner Vyta Du Roc was reported to be one of the horses seen in the abattoir.

Welfare chief condemns abattoir practices shown in Panorama documentary

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) responded saying it would respond as a "matter of urgency" to claims that welfare of racehorses had been compromised, with industry leaders to meet with the Horse Welfare Board – a body set up by the BHA responsible for making improvements for racehorses throughout the entirety of their lives.

A statement from the BHA read: "No-one in racing, and no-one who loves horses, wants to see them caused distress or suffering at the end of their lives.

"If there has been a departure from approved abattoir practices and the welfare of the horses involved has been compromised, it's important this is addressed as a matter of urgency. This includes transporting horses over long distances to an abattoir, especially if these have injuries, which is not acceptable under the British racing industry's guidelines for euthanasia.

"The Food Standards Agency, which regulates abattoirs, is responsible for maintaining standards of animal welfare. We would support them if they decide there is evidence of mistreatment of animals which requires investigation, given the public concern that may arise from this programme."

Vyta Du Roc: one of the horses said to be shown in the abattoirCredit: Edward Whitaker

In a statement released on Monday night after the documentary, the BHA said other leaders from British racing including the independently chaired Horse Welfare Board, "will be meeting tomorrow [Tuesday] to consider further the issues raised by this programme. We will also be in contact with our colleagues in Ireland".

The Horse Welfare Board published a report, with a five-year plan, in February 2020 to improve welfare for animals throughout all stages of their lives.

The statement added: "The British racing industry, and the 7,000 and more staff who look after our horses day-in, day-out, across Britain, are proud of the unparalleled standards of love, care, attention, and respect our horses receive.

"Where end-of life decisions are being considered, we want these to take place in accordance with the euthanasia guidelines developed by the industry's Horse Welfare Board over the last 12 months. These aim to ensure that horses' welfare is protected and that all available options for rehoming are examined."

Read more of Tuesday's top stories:

'We couldn't be happier' – Battaash in prime shape for Glorious Goodwood

What happened in Australia after airing of another controversial documentary?

New Covid pass could present 'significant logistical' challenge, says RCA

Over 50% off Racing Post Members' Club!Members' Club is the only subscription racing fans and punters need in order to stay informed and make smarter betting decisions. Features include early access to the Racing Post digital newspaper, exclusive news and interviews, premium tips and form study tools to assist with betting. Select 'Get Ultimate Monthly' and enter code TRYME to get your first month for just £14.99* – that's better than half price!

Subscribe now

If you decide that Members' Club is not for you, then you can cancel at anytime by contacting us.

*Members' Club Ultimate Monthly first month will be charged at £14.99, renews at full price thereafter