A racegoer was treated in hospital for stab wounds after a mass brawl took place after racing at Sandown Park on Saturday afternoon. The meeting staged the Imperial Cup on the day, and Princess Anne was among those in attendance.
Ten men were questioned by police, after one punter was rushed to hospital with a severe gash in his neck. Forensic officers remained at the scene yesterday evening as they searched for a weapon. It is understood that he fight broke out between two groups of men at about 6.15pm on Saturday.
Detective Inspector Kevin Jewell, leading the investigation, said: “This was a concerning incident resulting in one man receiving what were originally thought to be life-threatening injuries.
“A large number of people would have been leaving the venue around the time the altercation happened so I am certain that members of the public must have seen the incident taking place, and would urge them to contact police as soon as possible.
“Fortunately no one appears to have now suffered any serious injuries during the altercation but we are carrying out a thorough investigation into the incident.”
A spokesman for Sandown Park said: “We can confirm that a serious assault took place after racing outside the main entrance at Sandown Park racecourse and the matter is now in the hands of the police. “Security at our tracks is taken very seriously and it is distressing for everyone involved that an incident like this occurred.
“Situations like this are extremely rare and we will of course assist the police fully while they conduct a full investigation. We feel at this time it is inappropriate for us to comment further.”
