The British Horseracing Authority has begun an investigation following four equine fatalities at Newton Abbot’s meeting on Tuesday afternoon.

The seven-race card was run on ground officially described as good, good to firm in places and following four casualties throughout the meeting, the British Horseracing Authority has pledged to investigate the situation which they described as deeply saddening.

The BHA statement read: "Our thoughts are with everyone connected to the horses who suffered fatal injuries yesterday. The loss of any horse is always a dreadful occurrence for the owners, trainers and stable staff who provide them with outstanding care and attention throughout their lives, and so a day like yesterday is one that deeply saddens all of us who love the sport.

"Losing four horses at a single fixture is extremely rare but this does not reduce the seriousness with which the BHA takes this matter. All four deaths will be thoroughly investigated to understand as best as possible how they occurred and a report will also be compiled on the condition of the course, which is being assessed in order to ascertain whether there are any concerns regarding the racing surface."

A statement from Patrick Masterson, managing director of Newton Abbot racecourse, read: "All at Newton Abbot Races Limited are deeply saddened by the loss of four horses at our meeting yesterday. All our sympathies are with the owners and trainers of the horses concerned. We will assist the British Horseracing Authority with their enquiries into the full facts."