RACING people want the best for our horses. We would love more people outside the sport to understand just how much we put into keeping horses safe.”

With those words, the British Horseracing Authority’s chief executive Nick Rust accepted the recommendations of the Horse Welfare Board, published in a most comprehensive strategic plan. The HWB had an independent chair in Barry Johnson, a former president of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, and included members who have been outspoken critics on matters concerning horse welfare. Notable in this regard is the MP and former Minister for Sport, Tracey Crouch.