Sunbathers nearly trampled by racehorses

6:04am Thursday 26th April 2007

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Racehorses nearly trampled sunbathers who were sprawled out on a training track.

A collision was only avoided because of the skill and quick reactions of the riders who pulled up their mounts.

Sharon Ingram, wife of trainer Roger Ingram, was training two-year-olds at grass and sand tracks at Epsom Downs when the incident happened on Friday, April 20.

It is believed the members of public, who were lying between the furlong markers, were not locals.

Two decades ago, so many horses were exercised at the Downs that the need for caution was obvious.

But now newcomers are not always aware the area is used as a training centre.

Epsom and Walton Downs Conservators are mounting a safety campaign, increasing signs and issuing leaflets warning when racehorses could be on the Downs.

The issue was discussed at a meeting of the conservators on Monday last week.

The clerk, chief executive of Epsom and Ewell Borough Council, David Smith said it will step up a campaign to get people better educated.