The regulatory body made the decision following discussions with veterinary experts and industry representatives, as well as taking into account recent advice from the UK Government and Public Health England.

Mark Bird, the Managing Director of GBGB, said: “These are uncertain and unprecedented times and our utmost priority is always the welfare and care of the greyhounds at the centre of our sport.

“We are likewise mindful of the health and wellbeing of everyone associated with British greyhound racing and of course our wider social responsibility to help minimise the transmission and impact of COVID-19.

“These measures will help to safeguard the welfare of our greyhounds by ensuring that, although behind closed doors, racing continues wherever possible at this stage.”

Earlier this week, the Randox Health Grand National was cancelled after the Jockey Club decided it was “no longer appropriate to stage the event.”

The British Horseracing Authority has also made the decision to suspend all British horseracing until the end of April.