39 Essex Barristers in groundbreaking case obtaining injunction prohibiting touting at Cheltenham Racecourse

On 24 October 2018 Mr Justice Nugee sitting in the High Court Chancery Division in London issued an injunction against 'persons unknown' directed at preventing ticket touting at Cheltenham Racecourse. John Steel Q.C. and Victoria Hutton acted on behalf of the Claimant, Jockey Club Racecourses Limited ('JCR'). They were instructed by Pinsent Masons and Ian Renton, Regional Director of JCR.

The evidence before the Judge showed that the touting activity, which has been increasing in recent years, was causing significant harm to JCR, members of the public attending race meetings and also the image of racing itself. Recognising this harm, the injunction application was supported by both the local police constabulary and also Cheltenham Borough Council.

As a result of the proceedings any person selling or attempting to sell tickets on Racecourse Land without the prior written consent of JCR will be in breach of the injunction. Equally, anyone assisting in that activity will also be in breach.

The proceedings and issue of the injunction has been covered in the national press including the Times and the Racing Post. A copy is found on the home page of the Cheltenham Racecourse website www.cheltenham.co.uk