THE GREYHOUND BOARD OF GREAT BRITAIN, which oversees Wales’s only licensed greyhound racing track, has welcomed a statement by the Welsh Government on the licensing of animal establishments following a public consultation earlier this year.

GBGB, as the regulator for the licensed greyhound racing sector, expressed its commitment to continued collaboration with the Welsh Government to enhance the welfare of racing greyhounds. The statement, delivered by the Deputy First Minister, summarized responses to the consultation on licensing animal welfare establishments, activities, and exhibits.

Broad support for licensing

The consultation responses, which included contributions from GBGB, racing industry stakeholders, and animal welfare charities, demonstrated clear support for licensing animal welfare establishments. Respondents highlighted the positive economic, social, cultural, and welfare impacts of GBGB’s regulation of greyhound racing in Wales, particularly at the Valley Stadium.

Mark Bird, Chief Executive of GBGB, said: “We welcome the consultation summary today, which shows very clearly the strength of support for effective and proportionate regulation to safeguard animal welfare – whether for commercial dog walkers and pet groomers or within greyhound racing.

“As the regulator for Wales’s greyhound racing track, the Valley Stadium, we have proven how robust licensing can transform welfare standards. Despite coordinated and misleading campaigns by animal rights groups – as evidenced by the duplicate responses flagged in the summary – these efforts have not gained definitive support for a phased ban.

“We are pleased the Government continues to prioritise a fully comprehensive, evidence-based, and measured approach to optimising welfare. As further work is carried out on effective regulation in Wales, we remain committed to engaging fully with the Deputy First Minister and his officials to promote and protect greyhound welfare.”

Welfare and economic benefits highlighted

Bird emphasized the benefits brought by GBGB’s licensing standards at the Valley Stadium:
“Valley Stadium’s management has invested significantly to meet GBGB’s rigorous licensing requirements. The track now benefits from the expertise of an on-site veterinary surgeon and the ongoing support of our national network of experts. Racing greyhounds enjoy more protections and oversight than the general pet dog population across Wales.

“This licensing has not only enhanced welfare but also generated jobs, growth, and a strong base of local supporters who value the opportunity to enjoy this historic Welsh pastime with welfare at its core.”

Views from animal welfare organisations

The summary of consultation responses featured contributions from respected animal welfare organisations, including Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and The Kennel Club.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home recommended robust regulation, stating:
“Battersea would strongly recommend regulation of Greyhound racing go beyond solely regulating the stadia to also account for trainer kennels, where racing Greyhounds spend 95% of their lives. Regulation should be based on proven, enforceable standards that safeguard welfare.”

The Kennel Club supported licensing, noting:
“We would suggest that it would be premature to ban greyhound racing in Wales without giving a licensing scheme an opportunity to demonstrate that racing can be regulated and operate to acceptable welfare standards.”

Looking ahead

GBGB remains committed to working with the Welsh Government to uphold the highest welfare standards in greyhound racing while ensuring the sport continues to contribute positively to local communities and the economy.

RSPCA Cymru has welcomed strong public support for Welsh Government proposals to introduce licensing for animal welfare establishments (AWEs), such as sanctuaries, rehoming centres, and rescues.

A recent consultation revealed that 82% of respondents back regulation for AWEs, marking significant progress in a campaign led by RSPCA Cymru to ensure these establishments are formally overseen. This would provide vital assurances to the public and enhance animal welfare protections.

Currently, AWEs in Wales are not subject to specific regulations—unlike riding schools, dog breeders, and cat boarders. This means that anyone can establish a sanctuary or rescue centre without proving they have the skills, funds, or resources needed to properly care for animals.

The Welsh Government’s consultation, which included 1,180 responses and also examined the future of greyhound racing, revealed:

• 82.18% of respondents supported licensing for AWEs (735 responses).
• 74.52% supported licensing for animal activities (726 responses).
• 71.63% backed a licensing scheme to strengthen regulations for animal exhibits (719 responses).

The consultation findings were published today (Dec 18), with further steps expected to be announced in Spring 2025.

RSPCA welcomes progress

RSPCA Cymru’s Senior Public Affairs Manager, Billie-Jade Thomas, described the support as “overwhelming,” stating:
“Many owners of sanctuaries and other AWEs undertake hugely important work, but the lack of regulation and oversight has long been a concern.

“Our officers have too often dealt with situations spiralling out of control—capacity, governance, and financial issues are all too common. These findings highlight the clear need for regulatory action.”

The charity launched a report in 2023 highlighting the “urgent need” for regulation, supported by a poll showing 88% of the Welsh public agree AWEs should be licensed. Notably, 82% of AWEs surveyed by the RSPCA also supported licensing.

The report found that only 5% of the public were aware that AWEs are currently unregulated in Wales, with many assuming external oversight already exists.

Challenges with voluntary guidance

A voluntary Code of Practice for AWEs was introduced in September 2020, providing operational guidance. However, nearly half of AWEs surveyed admitted they had never referred to it, raising concerns about its effectiveness.

“While the Code of Practice was a step forward, it is clear too little notice has been paid to it,” said Billie. “We’ve even had to prosecute some AWE owners since its publication, showing legislative action is urgently needed.

“Without oversight, welfare issues can escalate, leaving owners overburdened and animals at risk. Regulations must ensure establishments are registered with local authorities and subjected to inspections.”

Broader welfare issues

The RSPCA is also part of the ‘Cut the Chase’ coalition, alongside Dogs Trust, Blue Cross, Hope Rescue, and Greyhound Rescue Wales, advocating for animal welfare reforms across sectors.

The consultation included proposals regarding greyhound racing, with further announcements on its future expected next year.

Supporters can learn more about the RSPCA’s #SaferSanctuaries campaign by visiting the charity’s website.

Photo caption
Campaign success: RSPCA Cymru continues to push for regulation of AWEs (Pic: Herald)

WITH the Torch Theatre’s festive panto Jack and the Beanstalk in full swing, its community spirit is more prevalent this year than ever before. With local actors, local stage crew and local support from nearby companies, including Valero and Elder Meadows Nursery, the annual family production is a must for all this Christmas.  

Lloyd Grayshon – the memorable Mrs Trott, Freya Dare who plays the cool Agatha Fleshcreep and Samuel Freeman as Terrence Fleshcreep – are all from west Wales, with Samuel from Milford Haven town itself. Gareth Elis, who plays the main character, Jack Trott, has Whitland connections with Carri Munn (Pat the Cow) part of the Torch family having performed on the Torch stage this year in Tachwedd / The Slaughter (Theatre 503) and Elena Carys-Thomas as Fairy Gabby Greenfingers returns following a stint with the Torch Youth Theatre.

Chelsey Gillard, Torch Theatre’s Artistic Director said: “I feel it’s important that many of our actors and creative team have a local connection especially as they include local references in the panto – Jack is from Hakin after all! It’s also important for our audiences, particularly young people, to see people like them on the stage.

“At the Torch we help people of all ages develop their creativity and we want our audiences to know that anything is possible, whether you want to become a doctor, a hairdresser, an engineer or even an actor.”

Samuel Freeman started his acting career at the Torch having been an active member of Torch Youth.

“It always feels like a huge honour to be working at the Torch. We are very lucky to have a theatre in Milford Haven that produces original work, as well as receiving high calibre touring productions, cinema and live broadcasts. Growing up with this right on my doorstep was integral to my love of theatre. I had access to the Torch’s fantastic youth theatre program, giving me the chance to experience performing in a professional setting from an early age. 

“In a way, things feel they have gone full circle. It is hard to put into succinct words how much joy and pride it gives me to be on the very stage I watched, wishing to be a part of Pembrokeshire brims with talent and culture, and it means the world to me to continue that legacy of great art in our wonderful part of the world.”

Freya Dare, who was the ultimate understudy in the Torch Theatre’s pantomime Beauty and the Beast, covering for Belle, Belle’s Mother and Fairy Shadowmist, is delighted to be supporting her local theatre.

Freya said: “It is so special to perform at this special theatre that means so much to me. I love that I know and work with some of the audience members and get excited to bring joy and fun to a community I care so much about. “

Jack and the Beanstalk can be seen at the Torch Theatre from now until Sun 29 Dec 2024 with both matinee and evening performances. Ticket prices: £23.50 | £19.50 Cons | £75.00 Family. BSL Performance – Tuesday 17 December at 6pm.

To book your tickets or for further information, contact the Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.