Greyhound Derby to remain at Towcester racecourse for five years

A racecourse has been given the contract to host the annual English Greyhound Derby for the next five years.

Towcester Racecourse, in Northamptonshire, added it was “the home of the sport’s biggest fixture” which next year celebrates its centenary.

Last month, it was confirmed horse racing would return to the track, after it closed for the sport in 2019 when Towcester Racecourse Company Limited entered into administration with debts of more than £1.3m.

Greyhound racing is due to be banned in Scotland and Wales. Campaign group Animal Rising has protested against the racing of dogs at Towcester arguing that it was “dangerous”, but the sports national board said it was a “welfare-driven” sport.

James Chalkley, head of racing at the course, said the “flagship event gives us the opportunity to build on what has already been established at Towcester and make plans for the future of the competition”.

Garry Nash, from Premier Greyhound Racing, said: “The Derby is a showcase event for greyhound racing, and we are excited to continue working with the racecourse to bring the competition to our worldwide audiences.”

The date of the 2027 fixture has yet to be announced.