WIN A GREAT BOOK

YORKSHIRE has a rich racing history with Middleham arguably the most important training centre outside of Newmarket thanks to the likes of Mark Johnston sending his raiders up and down the land.

Had he been operating 500 years ago, he would have had another option on his doorstep at Richmond.

Racing was in full swing there as early as 1512 and went through to 1891 when the final meeting took place.

A new book charts the track’s ups and downs during that long spell with particular focus on its grandstand.

As a large picture early in the publication shows, you can still see the ruined structure on the moors along with the clear outline of a racecourse.

The book is written by Professor Mike Huggins and was commissioned by the Burgage Pastures Committee that has been responsible for the course since 1853 and successfully fought the demolition of the structure 50 years ago.

It has been trying to improve the site and restore the grandstand to something approaching its former glory. The book proves it’s a building that deserves to be restored.

Over 83 pages, the book goes through the course’s rich and varied history and is beautifully illustrated; well worth

£10.

COMPETITION

We have three copies of the book to give away in a draw.

Simply answer this question:

Which of these courses is nearest to Richmond?

A: Catterick, B: Haydock, C: Uttoxeter Racing Ahead, 27-37 St George’s Road, Wimbledon, SW19 4EU or EMAIL: info@racingahead.net

A SHORT HISTORY OF RICHMOND RACECOURSE AND ITS GRANDSTAND BY PROF MIKE HUGGINS

£10 from Burgage House, 1 Millgate, Richmond, N Yorks, DL10 4JL or www.richmondinfo. net/shop.html