Animal Rights Protesters Arrested Ahead of Epsom Derby Horse Race

June 3 (Reuters) - Police arrested 31 people in connection with plans to disrupt the Epsom Derby horse race on Saturday, including a man who ran onto the track, as major sporting events in Britain continue to be affected by protests.

Animal Rising, a protest group dedicated to animal rights, had called for volunteers to disrupt the event by entering the track.

Surrey Police made 19 arrests in the build-up to the race and another 12 were arrested at the racecourse.

A video shared on Twitter by Animal Rising showed a protester being detained by police and event security after running onto the track during a race.

The group claimed that the individual was a supporter of theirs.

Chief Superintendent Clive Davies of Surrey Police said that officers and event security responded quickly and decisively after the man ran onto the track.

"We will not tolerate criminal behaviour which puts lives in danger, including those of the animals, jockeys, security staff and our officers," he added.

The Epsom Derby was delayed by animal rights protesters at last year's event, and more than 20 people were arrested at the Scottish Grand National in April.

The Epsom Derby was also delayed in 2019 after six protesters from Animal Rebellion entered the course and had to be removed by the police.