PROTECTING racegoers from thieves, thugs and fixers is the aim of a new partnership between the Jockey Club and Crimestoppers.

The move, which is being backed by York Racecourse, aims to encourage racegoers to pass on information about crime on the course.

York, the host of Royal Ascot in June, is part of the Racecourse Association (RCA), which has given its assent to the ground-breaking partnership.

Launching the venture at Newmarket, all three bodies said the partnership came at a "particularly relevant time" following a high-profile police investigation into alleged race fixing.

A number of North Yorkshire racing personalities including Middleham-based trainer Karl Burke and jockeys Robert Winston and Gyles Parkin have been detained as part of an investigation by City of London Police.

The Jockey Club and RCA hope that the raised awareness of Crimestoppers will encourage those involved in the racing world, whether professionally or privately, to report information on all aspects of crime.

James Brennan, marketing director at York Racecourse, said: "This has got to be a good thing and it comes from an evaluation of the existing processes.

"While there have been confidential phone lines to the Jockey Club's security office, the linking up with a household name in crime prevention is a step forward. This is an issue that everyone takes very seriously."

Dave Cording, Crimestoppers director of operations, said: "We are delighted to be working with the Jockey Club and the Racecourse Association.

"This is an important time in the history of the sport and by raising awareness for the invaluable service which Crimestoppers provides to the public, we can further help to reduce all aspects of crime."

Paul Scotney, the Jockey Club's director of security, said "Crimestoppers has a proven track record of success and is a recognised brand all over the country.

"We are appealing for information on all forms of criminal activity which relate to the sport of horseracing, as well as specifically requesting those who may have information involving corruption or malpractice to use, with confidence, the Crimestoppers number."

Anyone who wants to talk to Crimestoppers in confidence should phone 0800 555 111.

Updated: 09:09 Thursday, April 21, 2005