Brighton racecourse has refuted claims by top jockey Pat Eddery that the track is dangerous and should be closed.

Eddery has whipped up a storm with remarks he made to a national newspaper.

The 11-times champion jockey said: "I'd close the course at Brighton. I won't go to Brighton any more.

"It's a very dangerous track. There's a steep downhill and two bad roads. I hate the place."

General manager Phil Bell has galloped to the defence of the course.

He said: "I am surprised by Pat's comments because he has had numerous winners here over the last 20 years.

"The Jockey Club has given us a licence to hold race meetings and this is only granted if we adhere to strict guidelines with regards to the safety of both rider and horse.

"If the Jockey Club weren't happy with our safety arrangements, we wouldn't be racing.

"All of Britain's senior jockeys have ridden at Brighton in the last two years.

"The champion jockey Kieron Fallon has ridden at the course twice in the last month.

"They clearly don't share Pat Eddery's views."

Eddery, who retires at the end of the season, stood by his comments when The Argus contacted him.

The 51-year-old, a regular rider for Arundel trainer John Dunlop, said: "I don't ride there, period. I haven't done for three years, because I don't like the place.

"I just think it's a dangerous track. I know there have been a lot of fallers and there are a lot of jockeys who don't ride there."

The Brighton course hit the headlines in July 1981 when a young Sussex jockey died following a fall.

Findon-based Joe Blanks was killed after he was thrown from his mount Sleigh Queen.

The course has enjoyed a dramatic upturn in fortunes in recent years under the leadership of Bell and Northern Racing.

Brighton's next meeting is on Tuesday afternoon, first race at 2.30pm.