Sir - According to a spokesperson for Arena Racing, which manages Worcester Racecourse, "from about 90,000 runners each year the average fatality rate is just over 0.2 per cent" ("Calls to close racecourse after three horse deaths", August 1st).

However, this "just over 0.2 per cent" amounts to at least 180 horses killed on British racecourses every year and the figure rises to over 400 when those that are fatally injured during training, or are killed because they are no longer of commercial value, are also taken into account.

Thousands more are slaughtered annually after failing to make the grade as racers or when their racing days are over.

Members of the public can help put an end to this horrific situation by not attending or betting on horse racing, so this appalling death-industry fades away through lack of financial support.

Worcestershire Vegans & Veggies is dedicated to bringing about a more humane society, both in terms of the food we eat and how animals are treated in general, which is why are campaigning for the closure of Worcester Racecourse.

Anyone who is interested in switching to a more humane diet and lifestyle and/or campaigning for animal protection can contact us at info@worcsveg.org.uk, on 01562 700043 or via our website at www.worcsveg.org.uk

Ronald Lee

Communications Officer

Worcestershire Vegans & Veggies