Man tackled by police after running onto Epsom race course

Two protesters have been arrested as they attempted to disrupt the Epsom Derby on Saturday (3 June).

One man managed to jump the fence before being tackled and handcuffed by police on the racecourse while the crowd jeered and booed.

Minutes later, a woman attempted to climb the fence but was pulled to the floor by police.

Despite pledges by activist group Animal Rising to 'cancel or severely delay' the Derby, the race continued as planned shortly after the protesters were carried away.

Observers described the situation as 'ludicrous' and 'absolute insanity', while others thanked police for putting a stop to the protests.

Nineteen activists have been arrested ahead of plans to disrupt the Derby on Saturday, police have said in a statement.

PA

A spokesperson for the force said 11 people were arrested at addresses in Mitcham and Byfleet in the early hours and a further eight people were arrested after their vehicle was stopped on Canons Lane in Burgh Heath at around 10.20am.

Animal Rising had previously said they would 'cancel or severely delay' the race - despite the fact a High Court injunction was issued banning them from doing so.

Last week, the Jockey Club, which owns Epsom Downs, was granted the injunction against the group, claiming it had made 'explicitly clear' it intended to breach security at the Surrey racecourse.

Surrey Police warned they 'will not tolerate' risks to public safety after an Animal Rising member told Sky News she would do 'what’s necessary', including breaking the law, to protect the animals.