Ascot Racecourse have stated they ‘do not plan’ to apply for a High Court Injunction to cover 'the potential threat of disruption and trespass at Royal Ascot'.

Epsom Downs made the decision to apply for a High Court Injunction after animal rights group Animal Rising declared their intention to disrupt the Epsom Derby.

The activists had successfully delayed the start of the Grand National by fourteen minutes at Aintree in April and disrupted proceedings prior to the Scottish Grand National at Ayr the following week.

In a statement, Ascot Racecourse said: "Following legal advice and direct liaison with the Thames Valley Police [TVP], at this time we do not plan to apply for an injunction to cover the potential threat of disruption and trespass at Royal Ascot.

TVP have powers in place within the existing legislation which are sufficient to be able to respond to any incidents of disorder or disruption.

Peaceful protest is welcome as it always has been and will be accommodated outside the racecourse.

As we do every year, we are working extremely closely with the TVP and our own security providers to be as prepared as possible for any planned disruption during Royal Ascot.

We will have additional security around the site as well as enhanced CCTV provision and there will be increased police presence throughout the week."

Ascot Racecourse has been working closely with Thames Valley Police and their spokesperson said: "We have a legal obligation to facilitate peaceful protest and we will be balancing the rights of any protestors with the needs of the local community and spectators.

"With sufficient policing powers from existing legislation, we will be able to respond to incidents of disorder or disruption in a proportionate manner as they occur."