Newbury results expected Thursday

The results of post-mortem examinations into the two horses who died in the parade ring at Newbury on Saturday are not expected to be released until Thursday.

Fenix Two and Marching Song were about to be mounted by their jockeys on the grass on the far side of the paddock before the first race when they fell to the ground and died.

Two other horses, Kid Cassidy and The Merry Giant, were also affected, but have since recovered.

Speculation has been rife since the horrific events that the horses may have suffered from some form of electric shock.

Speaking on Twitter early on Wednesday afternoon, Paul Struthers, head of communications for the British Horseracing Authority, said: “Regarding Newbury, not expecting an announcement today at this stage.”

Struthers said in a statement released on Tuesday: “Post-mortem analysis of a horse and associated samples takes a certain amount of time and this work is proceeding as a matter of urgency.

“Forensic laboratory tests are proceeding with a similar urgency and we expect to know the initial results no later than Thursday.

“Only once we have these results will we be able to make a more detailed statement.”

Although the first race went ahead, the rest of the meeting, featuring the totesport Trophy, was abandoned on health and safety grounds.

The fixture has been rescheduled to take place on Friday.