TAKING ANIMAL RIGHTS TO TRIAL
HORSE RACING
Horse racing is an outdated practice that is ready to be resigned to history.
In 2022 we disrupted the Epsom Derby, then followed it up with the Summer of Animal Rising. Our planned disruption of the 2023 Grand National made headlines, sparking a national conversation about the cruelty of horse racing. The race was delayed, and 100+ arrests resulted in 45 people being charged with public nuisance for their essential roles in calling on an end to horse racing.
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It didn't end there - we disrupted the Scottish Grand National, followed by delaying the races at Doncaster, and then taking fight for horses to the Epsom Derby, again, in June. Whilst brave supporters delayed the race inside, a celebration took place outside the venue - showing an alternative to the cruel sport.
GREYHOUND RACING
2023 also saw the disruption of the English Greyhound Derby, where dogs are raced to exhuastion, and tossed away once they are no longer of use to the industry.
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Those who protested the outdated sport faced 6-9 week prison sentences, suspended for 12 months, and 100+ hours of community service. They were also fined £60,000, despite no practical disruption to the Greyhound Derby Final. The compensation orders were later overturned, but human rights org. Liberty stated that the sentencing set "a really alarming precedent for protest rights".
FREE THE MBR BEAGLES
In December 2022, Animal Rising supporters rescued 18 beagle puppies from Marshall BioResources (MBR) Acres, a facility that breeds around 2,000 dogs annually for testing, and has previously come under fire for welfare breaches (with recorded fly infestations, unhygienic buildings, lack of bedding, and dogs without access to outdoor spaces or enrichment).
Now, 18 people face charges and up to 10 years in prison.
This trial challenges the legitimacy of animal testing in the UK, potentially setting a precedent for the abolition of animal testing, and the right to rescue. With rising opposition to outdated testing methods, this case could mark a significant shift. We need your support.
This page is a work in progress. Check back soon for updates.