Kempton on despite disease outbreak
Tonight’s race meeting at Kempton is set to go ahead despite the return of foot-and-mouth disease just miles from the Surrey course.
The track falls within the 10 kilometre control zone following a confirmed new outbreak in Egham, about 10 miles from the previous outbreak in Pirbright six weeks ago.
Ascot and Windsor also fall within the control zone.
“We are currently within the 10 kilometre temporary control zone, so we obviously will carry out the disinfectant procedures for vehicles,” said Kempton clerk of the course Brian Clifford.
“We are being guided by the racecourse department and the RCA (Racecourse Association), but we do not anticipate any problems.”
British Horseracing Authority communications manager Will Lambe added: “At present no trainers fall within the temporary control zone, but three racecourses do, including Kempton, which is set to race this evening.
“We have contacted officials there, and they will be carrying out vehicular disinfection as per British Horseracing’s biosecurity requirements.
“The other two courses are Ascot, who are due to race in a fortnight and Windsor. They do not race until next month. We will be speaking with the courses as what requirements will be required.
“We are closely monitoring developments. It should be reiterated that there is no more risk in the movement of people associated with racing than with other everyday movements.
“But we have a responsibility to play in doing anything we can to limit the risk of the spread of the disease.
“We have established a clear contact with DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) and we are awaiting a decision from the European Union regarding the international movement of horses.
“Following the outbreak last month, the agreement that allows for the free movement of horses between Britain, Ireland and France was suspended.
“That’s not to say they couldn’t travel, they just needed extra certification and we have produced a guide to that.
“We are awaiting any announcement the EU may make.”
