Roads advice for Derby crowds

Last year's race was won by Johnny Murtagh on High Chaparral (right)

Measures are being put in place to control traffic heading for Epsom racecourse for this Saturday's Derby.

Thousands of people are expected at the Surrey course for what is one of the world's most famous annual horse races.

Surrey police, the local borough and county councils and the racecourse owners have met to come up with plans to control the race-day traffic.

Police say key roads may need to be closed at short notice and they are asking local residents to avoid parking on the street.

Healthy crowds expected

The Derby, which starts at 1600 BST on Saturday, boasts a total prize fund of £1.47m, making it the richest race run in Europe.

Healthy crowds are also expected on Friday for the running of the Oaks, another one of UK horse racing's five Classic races.

Surrey Police issued advice for race-goers and other road users on Tuesday, following discussions with Surrey County Council, Epsom and Ewell and Reigate and Banstead borough councils and United Racecourses, which runs Epsom.

A statement said: "Routes to and from the Downs will be clearly marked and on-street parking near the Downs will be prohibited to ensure free flow of traffic.

"Local residents are requested to make arrangements to avoid having to park on the public highway during the race meeting to ensure access for race-goers and emergency services vehicles.

"Race-goers who obstruct driveways and block the passage of large vehicles will have their cars removed.

Some inconvenience

"Police may need to close certain key roads or make them one-way during the course of the meeting."

Surrey County Council admitted the race causes some inconvenience for people who live near the course, but said it tried to keep it to a minimum.

Spokesman Jerry Mills said: "The Derby continues to be very popular, particularly in good weather.

"It would be impossible for such a major event to take place without some inconvenience to local people.

"The arrangements, particularly regarding parking restrictions, are designed to minimise problems."