Epsom Derby fan looks for walkers (From Epsom Guardian)
Contact us: Got a photo? Text SLPICS to 80360, click to upload your story or call
020 8722 6341
Epsom Derby fan looks for walkers
4:33pm Tuesday 15th May 2012 in News By Sophia Sleigh, Reporter
John Sandys is looking for more walkers for 2012
A huge Epsom Derby fan who started an annual walk in 2009 is inviting people to join him this year.
John Sandys said: "I’ve been an enormous fan of the Derby for more years than I care to remember.
"I’ve not only been fascinated by the race, but also by the thousands of people who travel to Epsom Downs every Derby Day, particularly the people who many years ago made their annual pilgrimage to the Downs under their own steam, shanks’ pony, trap and buggy.
"I often wondered what it would be like to embark on such a journey; planning weeks in advance, saving every last penny for a feast of food, up at the crack of dawn, excitedly joining the merry throng on this day.
"It seemed like Christmas, birthday and New Year’s Eve all rolled into one kaleidoscope of vibrant colour with all' the city’s characters out to play in one huge animated scene along the road from London to Epsom.
"That’s why my friends and I started the Derby Walk in 2009. We wanted to realise the dream, to re-create that famous walk from London to Epsom in our own way."
Mr Sandys is inviting readers to join in on the walk on May 27 and all proceeds will go towards three charities - The Children’s Trust and horse racing charities - Epsom Racing Staff Welfare and Greatwood.
The walk is approximately 20 miles, starting from Knightsbridge and ending at Epsom Racecourse.
Anyone who would like to take part should contact Mr Sandys by e mailing john.sandys@southernrailway.com or calling 07803 741882. Visit thederbywalk2011.co.uk.
