The British Horseracing Board is seeking a Declaration from the Courts that it has database rights in its pre-race information and that any betting operator who displays the information on an internet site without a BHB licence is in breach of BH?_x0019_s rights.

Following protracted and ultimately unsuccessful discussions with a number of bookmakers, BHB has issued proceedings against the William Hill Organization Ltd, who have refused to negotiate a licence for the regular display of BHB pre-race information on their UK and overseas internet sites.

The legal action follows successful negotiation with Victor Chandler International Ltd and Sportingbet.com (Alderney) Ltd, who have agreed non-precedential licences which include provision for the payment to BHB of 1% of betting turnover on British racing conducted through their internet sites. Discussions with other potential licencees continue.

For further information, contact Simon Powell on 0171-343-3310