The British Horseracing Authority have announced that they will introduce new safety measures at the Aintree Grand National course.
A safety review was conducted following the death of two horses in April, which took the tally of equine fatalities to 20 in the last 11 years.
Organisers hope to prevent further deaths by adjusting the start, which will be moved 90 yards closer to the first fence, while measures are being taken to stop horses getting caught up in the starting tape.
Jamie Stier, director of race day operations and regulation for the BHA, said: "It is possible that a more controlled environment at the start, along with reducing the distance between the start and the first fence, could have the effect of reducing the early speed of the race.
"If this were to be the case, it would be an added benefit."
The Becher's Brook landing zone is also being levelled further and the design of other fences will be scrutinised.
However, there are no plans as yet to reduce the field of horses from the current 40, as Aintree believe the course is big enough to accommodate such a large number.
Joe Fish
