Animal welfare charity stages protest calling for a ban on greyhound racing in Wales

Arnie is an almost 3-year-old greyhound and has been resident at Assisi animal sanctuary for 9 months
Earlier this year, a Senedd petition attracted 35,000 signatures calling for a ban.

An Animal welfare charity is staging a day-long protest outside Wales' last greyhound racecourse.

The only greyhound racing track that currently operates in Wales is The Valley Greyhound Stadium in Ystrad Mynach – which races once a week. 

Blue Cross is calling for the sport to be banned within the next 5 years.

Blue Cross animal welfare charity are calling for greyhound racing to be phased out over the next 5 years. Credit: PA Images

More than 90% of the British public doesn't suppose or take part in Greyhound racing, according to figures gathered by Blue Cross.

Earlier this year, a Senedd petition attracted 35,000 signatures calling for a ban.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “In our response to the Petitions Committee report we committed to consult on proposals including seeking views on licensing and prohibiting greyhound racing in Wales.

"We will take a view on the future of greyhound racing in Wales only after this consultation has taken place.”

In response to comments made by Blue Cross, a spokesperson for the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) said: “The Blue Cross’s call today is a re-hash of their attempts last year to attract publicity based on misleading and outdated information.

"Their call for a phased ending to greyhound racing in the UK relies on evidence taken from the internet; much of what they have quoted was incorrect and nearly all outdated.

“The Blue Cross has certainly not seemed bothered to act on greyhound racing in the last year, despite their calls for an end to the sport in 2022."

It added that last month, the Valley Stadium successfully obtained its GBGB racecourse licence following a robust and thorough process.

A Valley Greyhound Stadium spokesperson said: "Contrary to claims, Blue Cross's alleged 'day-long protest' lasted all of ten minutes".

They added: "We have continued to receive local support and enquiries about the imminent start of GBGB-licensed racing at Valley Stadium.

"We look forward to welcoming spectators soon to see everything we've put in place to support of the highest standards of welfare."

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know…