An investigation is to be carried out after four horses suffered fatal injuries at Newton Abbot’s race meeting on Tuesday.

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) says it will assess the condition of the Devon track.

Hallowed Rose fell, while Bala Brook was pulled up in the same handicap hurdle contest.

Cuzzicombe and Happy Helen were pulled up in other hurdle races.

A BHA statement read: “Our thoughts are with everyone connected to the horses who suffered fatal injuries.

“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.”