A MAN who was arrested after a brawl broke out at Haydock Park racecourse has been released under investigation.

Police are continuing to appeal for information and video footage following the incident at the Grand National Trial meeting on Saturday, February 16.

At around 4.50pm, officers were called to the racecourse following reports of a disturbance involving a group of men.

A 26-year old man was arrested on suspicion of affray and possession of a controlled drug.

He has since been released under investigation, said police.


Detectives are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information to assist our investigation.

Detective Inspector Jackie Guinness said: “This type of behaviour at such an event is unacceptable.

“We are carrying out CCTV and witness enquiries and I would appeal to anyone at the Racecourse on Saturday who may know someone involved, or has any information, to please come forward.

“We also know a number of people filmed the incident and I would ask anyone with smart phone footage to please contact us. Any information, no matter how small, could prove vital to our investigation and ultimately assist in bringing those responsible to justice.”

After the incident, the Racecourse Association’s Racecourse services director Caroline Davies said: "The RCA strongly condemns the appalling behaviour of a small group of race goers whose actions have taken the shine off a fantastic Saturday of racing. 


"Racecourse stewards and security teams are trained to detect and close down crowd disturbances in the rare incidents when they arise, as was the case Haydock Park. 

"Police are present at race meetings across the country where they deem it necessary in consultation with each racecourse. The RCA enjoys a close relationship with the police via the Horserace Police Practitioners Forum which enables us to share intelligence relating to events with our members. 

"As the first major sporting partner of Drinkaware, the RCA and its members are committed to promoting responsible drinking and a national campaign has been activated since 2015."

  • Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC, 101 quoting reference 19100055242 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.