Animal rights activist runs onto course during Derby

A protester was arrested yesterday after running onto the course during the Epsom Derby. Video shows the protester being tackled to the ground by police after jumping the fence when the starting gun went off.

- MARYAM ZAKIR-HUSSAIN

He was handcuffed and dragged away while the crowd jeered and booed. Minutes later, a woman tried to climb the fence but pulled to the floor by police.

Despite pledges by activist group Animal Rising to "cancel or severely delay" the Derby, the race continued, Some witnesses described the situation as "ludicrous" and "absolute insanity" while others thanked police for putting a stop to the protests.

Earlier, 19 animal rights protesters were arrested in connection with plans to disrupt the Epsom Derby Festival. Officers said 11 people were detained at addresses in Mitcham and Byfleet, in Surrey, in the early hours of the morning based on intelligence received ahead of the festival.