Epsom, Race Day c.1955
Photo ref:
E37301
More about this scene
Coronation Day in 1953 was celebrated with street parties, sports events and luncheons for the elderly. Loyal enthusiasm reached a peak with Queen Elizabeth II's arrival at the Derby, but spectators' loyalties were divided between the two horses that fought out the finish. Pinza was ridden by Gordon Richards, who had just been awarded a knighthood in the coronation honours, and whose long, record-breaking career only lacked a victory in the Derby. Aureole, on the other hand, was owned by the young and greatly loved new Queen. In the end Pinza won, and Gordon Richards was given a wonderful reception as he rode to the unsaddling enclosure. The Queen sent for him to offer her congratulations on his success. In the 1950s there was a lengthy battle between the Epsom Grand Stand Association and the BBC over televising the Derby. ITV entered negotiations in 1956, and secured the rights four years later for £50,000.
Add to Album
You must be signed in to save to an album
Sign inShare This Photo
Buy a Print
Unframed, Mounted, Framed and Canvas prints in a range of sizes and styles.
View Sizes & Prices
Featuring this image:
50s & 60s
Favourite archive photos celebrating the 50s & 60s
A Selection of Memories from Epsom
For many years now, we've been inviting visitors to our website to add their own memories to share their experiences of life as it was, prompted by the photographs in our archive. Here are some from Epsom
Sparked a Memory for you?
If this has sparked a memory, why not share it here?
Before
After