Threats made over race dog deaths

A greyhound racing watchdog has started an investigation

A businessman accused of putting down thousands of greyhounds fears for his life after receiving death threats.

A Sunday Times investigation claimed David Smith, of Seaham, County Durham, had shot 10,000 dogs with a bolt gun and buried them in his allotment.

Following the death threats, he has now installed security cameras at his home, according to a family friend.

Durham Police said Mr Smith, a builders' merchant, holds a bolt gun legally and has committed no offence.

He's very upset, worried for his livelihood and the safety of his family Family friend of Mr Smith

It is not illegal to kill animals as long as it is carried out humanely and they do not feel pain.

The investigation alleged that the greyhounds, which are usually retired aged about four, were killed over the past 15 years at a charge of £10 per dog.

Speaking from Mr Smith's home, the family friend said: "It's been recognised that he's not doing anything illegal, so what does it matter if it's 1,000 or 10,000?

"He's had death threats, and the undue attention of photographers invading his privacy. It's madness, blown out of all proportion.

Last resort

"Obviously he's very upset, worried for his livelihood and the safety of his family."

Dog racing watchdog The National Greyhound Racing Club (NGRC) has condemned the "euthanising" of healthy dogs and said putting them down should be a last resort, carried out by a vet.

The NGRC, which regulates 31 racing tracks nationwide, said it would start an inquiry.

Mr Smith has so far refused to make any public comment about the allegations.