Law’s opponents will race to find a way to replace greyhounds - Vladimir McTavish

I stress “effectively’ making it illegal. The exact wording of The Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Scotland) Bill deems it an offence to “allow a greyhound to compete on an oval racetrack in Scotland”.

Hardcore fans of the sport may complain or even kick off, but its popularity is on the decline to the extent only one track remains open in Scotland. They can still travel south of the border. Brough Park in Newcastle is open five days a week. Its popularity due to its attractive drinking and betting faculties.

At all events, betting is key to crowd engagement more than love of the actual sport. Although the dogs are a joy to watch when in full flow, graceful and lightening fast.

But racing can be hazardous. Injuries almost inevitably end a dog’s career. That’s when the real cruelty usually happens. If not shot, dogs are literally thrown on the scrapheap, abandoned by the roadside, often with their ears cut off to conceal their identity, as each greyhound has a unique number tattooed on its ear which will allow its owner to be traced.

Thankfully, a network of rescue charities has been established to allow more humanitarian owners to find homes for dogs whose careers have been cut short. Adopted greyhounds are a frequent sight on our streets these days. More common than dog racing fans, I would wager

The law will inevitably face resistance. One can only imagine the schemes being planned by its opponents to bypass the new law. Such as making greyhounds race on a straight track. Racing whippets round an oval track instead. Racing sheepdogs, beagles, labradoodles, chihuahuas or any other random breed of dog instead. Racing cats or large tame lizards. Racing rabbits running around an oval track chased by a huge electric greyhound.

However, the law will carry a maximum sentence of five years in prison or a fine of £2000. Which should hoover up any winnings from an illegal race.