Guest Planning Defence

Richard Guest is planning a “vigorous defence” against charges of animal cruelty being brought by the RSPCA.

The County Durham handler and two of his staff are accused of failing to provide a horse with proper veterinary attention after the death of 2004 Kelso winner What’s A Filly, who was put down last December.

In a statement to PA Sport, Guest said: “It is true that I and two members of my staff have received summonses over our treatment of a horse in my care.

“At the time of the alleged incident, we were looking after 84 horses and the RSPCA is entirely satisfied about our care of 83 of them.

“The issue concerns the treatment of one horse under veterinary advice where the RSPCA take a view that it should have been dealt with differently from the advice we received.

“It is their policy that such issues should be resolved by the courts and their allegation is denied and is being vigorously defended.

“Everyone in racing knows of my passion for horses and their welfare and I am very distressed to have been caught up in the middle of this unfortunate affair.

“It will be resolved in due course but, meanwhile, I have this matter hanging over my head.

“I would like to be able to say more at this stage but I have been advised by my solicitors to make no further comment as the matter is sub judice.”

The case against Guest, who partnered Red Marauder to win the 2001 Grand National, is due to be heard at Durham Magistrates’ Court on July 28.

? PA Sport