Doncaster Racecourse protest: Animal rights activists to stand trial
Animal Rising/TwitterFive animal rights activists are to stand trial in connection with a protest at Doncaster Racecourse.
The three women and two men were charged after supporters of the Animal Rising campaign group disrupted a horse racing event on 6 May.
On Friday, the defendants pleaded not guilty at Sheffield Crown Court to intentionally or recklessly causing a public nuisance.
All five were bailed ahead of a trial scheduled for 18 March next year.
The trial is expected to last five days.
George Wood/Getty ImagesThe defendants are among the first to be prosecuted under new legislation introduced by the government last year to crack down on disruptive protests.
They are accused of causing a public nuisance by blocking the course ahead of the final race during Coronation Royal Race Evening.
The defendants are:
- Zara Verryt, 34, of Sheldon Road, Nether Edge, Sheffield
- Johanna Grace, 26, of Twentywell Lane, Bradway, Sheffield
- Sarah Foy, 23, of North Street, Alfreton, Derbyshire
- Joshua Lane, 26, of North Street, Alfreton, Derbyshire
- Thomas Foy, 24, of Dannah Street, Ripley, Derbyshire
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