An inquiry has been launched after shocking violent scenes broke out at Haydock Park on Saturday.

A bumper eight-card race was staged at the famous course including the Grand National Trial Handicap Chase.

But the day's racing was marred as punters traded blows on the concourse in a disgraceful 50-man brawl.

Large groups of men could be seen throwing punches as security attempted to intervene, with women and children caught up in the melee.

The fight spilled over to a nearby bench where a woman was holding a toddler,

The shocking incident is alleged to have occurred during the final race of the day - the Walrus Open Hunters’ Chase.

Shocking violent scenes break out (
Image:
Twitter)

A Haydock Park spokesman said: "We take a zero tolerance position on antisocial behaviour.

"The perpetrators were ejected at the time and we are continuing to work with the police on this matter.”

It is not the first time that meetings have been marred by ugly scenes with a huge brawl breaking out at Ascot last year.

The brawl breaks out (
Image:
Twitter)

Security has been increased at major race venues since then but those at Haydock on Saturday were unable to prevent the trouble.

The incident occurred less than a month ahead of the Cheltenham Festival while the Grand National will also be staged in March.