Racehorse trainer due to have runners at Cheltenham could face prison over dog walker attack

10 Mar 2026 • 4:03 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

image is not available

Racehorse trainer Evan Williams has been convicted of assaulting a 72-year-old dog walker, Martin Dandridge, with a hockey stick, causing a fractured arm.

The incident occurred on Williams' land in Llancarfan, South Wales, on 4 December 2024, after Williams' family mistook Dandridge for someone 'lamping' on the property.

A jury at Cardiff Crown Court found the 54-year-old guilty of grievous bodily harm with intent after deliberating for 90 minutes.

Williams, who is due to have runners at the Cheltenham Festival this week, claimed Dandridge was injured by falling into a drainage hole after being pulled by his dog.

His sentencing has been adjourned until 14 April to allow him to fulfil racing commitments and make arrangements for his business, as he faces a potential prison sentence.

IN FULL

Cheltenham trainer faces prospect of prison sentence after attack on dog-walker