BHB supports Fairlop appeal

A proposed appeal against John Prescott's rejection of a new racecourse at Fairlop Waters in Essex has been backed by the governing body of British racing.

The British Horseracing Board, which is not directly involved in the Fairlop project, has already granted fixtures for the proposed venue and continues to support the scheme.

BHB spokesman Alan Delmonte claimed a successful appeal would be beneficial for the sport. He said: "A floodlit track near the capital would enable night racing to take place outside the summer, thus increasing betting turnover and the scope for international competition."

Developers The Wiggins Group plan to appeal against the rejection by Deputy Prime Minister Prescott of the £100 million scheme, claiming his decision was inconsistent with the findings of a 13-month public inquiry.