Valley promoter Malcolm Tams is planning to use the successful campaign to raise 10,000 signatures to secure a ‘support greyhound racing’ debate in the Welsh Senedd, as a springboard to challenge ‘anti’ racing rhetoric.
The 10,000 mark was passed earlier today and Tams has already challenged internet site Wales Online to produce a balanced response having given the animal rights activists plenty of exposure when a debate was heard to ban racing.
He said: “I told them that I expect them to publish our side of the story too. I notice that so far, they have been very quiet about MP Christine Rees losing the whip over allegations of bullying.
“She was the main one who was supporting Hope Rescue in their plan to ban racing. I have also been in touch with Hope Rescue asking them to name the Valley greyhounds that they claim to have rescued in the last two years. I can tell them the answer – it is none!
“So let us get everyone together for the debate in support of greyhound racing and hear the truth for once.
“The politicians said they wanted greyhound racing to be regulated – well that is exactly what we are trying to do.
“Our planning applications have been submitted and I am expecting to hear by the 16th of this month whether they need to go to committee or can be passed under devolved powers.
“If everything goes to plan, we could be looking to get our GBGB licence by the end of April.”
An update on the work can be found on the Valley website.
“This isn’t just about greyhound racing. What we are trying to do with the facilities will benefit the whole local community. Lynda Bonner, who did a fabulous interview on the TV, suggested that we change look of the website to reflect what greyhound racing means to the people who love the sport. We did it, and it was a fabulous idea.”
*At the time of this publication, the petition had 10,077 signatures
