Win a fascinating book about the 1844 Derby scandal

The Epsom Derby, established back in 1780 for three-year-old thoroughbred colts and fillies, is today considered to be the most prestigious of the five Classics of the racing calendar, but there was nothing noble about the notorious Derby held in 1844.

Marred by horse switching allegations, false age declarations, devious ownership transferrals and nobbling, it was set to become the most scandalous event in the history of the Turf. Drawing on a wide range of publications, newspaper articles, Jockey Club inquiry documentation and court evidence records, the book, ‘In Search of Running Rein - The amazing fraud of the 1844 Derby’ by Tony Byles, is a publication which horseracing enthusiasts, and other alike, will find an absorbing read about an event not widely known.

It reveals the audacious plan orchestrated by one man to ensure that he would achieve a monstrous betting coup in the race. It also covers the ensuing trial in detail.

Author Tony Byles now lives in Madeley, near Ironbridge, Shropshire, and was born and bred in West Drayton, London, growing up in the family home that his grandfather had built on the old West Drayton racecourse (1865-76).

In a foreward to the book, racing journalist Tony Morris admits that, in a lifetime of involvement in horse racing, he has waited more than 50 years to find out the truth about this scandalous affair.

He says: “I take my hat off to Tony Byles for the prodigious research he has undertaken in compiling this comprehensive account of a saga that shook the nation.”

Now West Sussex Gazette readers have the chance to win a copy of this excellent book, which is well illustrated with old photographs and published by Apex Publishing Ltd in hardback price £12.99.

Answer the following question: What is the name of the horse involved in the 1844 Derby scandal?

Simply send you answer and your name and address by email to [email protected] or by post one the back of a postcard or sealed envelope to Jeannie Knight, at West Sussex Gazette, 14-16 Market Square, Horsham, RH12 1HD to arrive by the closing date of June 10. First correct answer drawn will receive a copy of the book.

Book details: In Search of Running Rein is available from Apex Publishing Ltd. and amazon.co.uk

Contact Apex Publishing Ltd, [email protected] or 01255 428500