RACECOURSE bosses have reassured racegoers that they are "never complacent" about security after a brawl broke out at a meeting at Ascot on Saturday.

Chief executive of the Racecourse Association Stephen Atkin said venues would need to assess security after the incident, which involved more than 50 visitors.

He called on tracks to consider if they have the "right level of security staff" and whether security teams should be highly visible.

James Brennan from York Racecourse reassured racegoers ahead of the three day Dante Festival, which starts tomorrow, that security is taken "very seriously".

He said: “We are never complacent. Perhaps the nature of a Saturday meet is a little bit different to the midweek meetings.

“We do a lot of planning and clearly we have a lot of experience. High visibility stewarding has its place but there are other times when that can create an antagonistic atmosphere. Unfortunately we can’t be responsible for the behaviour of all individuals. We want people to come and have an enjoyable and safe day."

Up to 150 security staff will be on site at the festival, which is set to attract 40,000 visitors. Mr Brennan added that security staff receive proper training and work closely with North Yorkshire Police.

The British Horseracing Association reminded racecourses of their responsibility around alcohol policies and warned troublemakers that they could be banned.

Mr Brennan added: "We don’t offer drink promotions, we also take our licensing responsibility very seriously."