Trainer Iain Jardine calls on BHA to take action over disgusting Twitter abuse

Trainer Iain Jardine has called on the BHA to take action over vile abuse that racing figures have received on social media.

Jardine was sent a series of offensive messages on Twitter, attacking him and his family. The basis of the rantings was seemingly the performance of the yard's runner Golden Jeffrey, when the 11-2 shot finished sixth of eight at Ayr last month.

Iain Jardine form and stats

Speaking on Thursday, Jardine said: "It's terrible and it needs to stop. It's not on and something needs to be done about it. It's really offensive when they're mentioning your kids – it's not very nice.

"My partner Val posted the messages on Twitter and she's quite right to do that. It should be brought to light."

While Jardine has yet to contact the police on the matter, he may consider doing so, and added: "It would be nice if the BHA could help us and give us a bit of support against this."

Ralph Beckett: another to have received abuse on TwitterCredit: Edward Whitaker

Jardine is not alone in being targeted, with Roger Charlton, Ralph Beckett, Archie Watson and Michael Hickmott in Australia all recently reporting abuse, with similar language used each time, suggesting there is a serial offender.

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The BHA responded to Jardine on Twitter, saying the matter had been sent to their integrity team, while head of media Robin Mounsey said on Thursday: "There is no place for behaviour such as this and we encourage anyone who is on the receiving end of abusive messages to contact our integrity department.

"They will take a look at any such messages and assess what action might be taken – including whether the matter should be reported to the police – as well as providing support and guidance for anyone affected."

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