Flu restrictions lifted on Shropshire stable of Mel and Phil Rowley

The British Horseracing Authority has lifted restrictions on the Shropshire stable of Mel and Phil Rowley following the confirmed case of equine flu at a yard adjacent to their premises.

The horse arrived from the Goffs Arkle Sale in Kildare in early June, subsequently developing symptoms and being diagnosed with the infection. The animal in question was transported to Britain on a lorry with eight other thoroughbreds which were subsequently tracked down and tested at a mix of licensed premises, pre-training yards and other premises.

After thanking trainers for their cooperation, the BHA gave the go-ahead for the Rowleys to operate as normal.

“Our thanks again to trainers for your continued efforts, and in particular to those who purchased or received horses from the Goffs Arkle Sale for your support as we traced and determined the level of risk,” a statement read.

“Fortunately, through these actions and prompt engagement we were able to quickly identify those yards at higher risk of exposure and take targeted action.

“This included withdrawing a small number of intended runners and testing others to make sure they were free of the virus before travelling to the racecourse.

“We would also like to confirm that, through this process, we have been able to lift the restrictions placed on Mel and Phil Rowley’s yard in Shropshire.

“Again, we are very grateful for their proactive assistance, which has helped avoid what could potentially have been a much bigger and less manageable outbreak.”