As far back as I can remember I have been attending Epsom Derby Day from when it used to be held on the Wednesday and I get a day off school to attend up to this past Saturday.

I've fond memories of the hill being full of race goers enjoying a day out with friends or trying to win a few quid off the bookie. It's with a heavy heart I feel this year’s Derby had somewhat dampened spirits. Myself and friends attended this year and as usual we had two cars packed full of chairs, marquee, BBQ, food and drink to enjoy the days festivities. Having arrived early at around 10am and paying the increased price of £45 per vehicle we found out spot near the 7th flag towards the famous Tattenham Corner End (our favoured spot) and set up all our area including BBQ, we were soon joined by two young gentlemen driving what I would describe as a big golf buggies with around 30 Fire Extinguishers in the back. We were approached by both who informed us that "There is Zero tolerance to BBQ's this year".

Having argued this for a minute or two and not having been told this upon entry having paid our £45 we were quite put out as our BBQ has always been a tradition let alone the thought of Smithfield's finest meat not being savoured. We then saw the two males drive about twenty metres to another group who had already lit their BBQ and with little discussion set upon it with their extinguisher like a pack of Lions on a helpless Zebra  Several hours later a friend joined us and we relayed the disappointing news of the BBQ situation, just as we were telling him two of the Finest Surrey Fire Brigade slowly drove towards us. We asked them if this information was indeed correct. There reply lightened up my day no end. We were informed that, "No you can have the BBQ's as long as you're sensible". So we did and delightful it was too…..

I have since found on the Jockey Club website that in the FAQ's the following

Can I have a barbecue? They are strictly forbidden in all enclosures including The Hill due to their proximity to the track. This is part of the Epsom and Walton Downs Act(the byelaw states) That a person shall not, without the consent of the Conservators, "camp or light fires" on the Downs; it is an offence to contravene the byelaws. This includes bonfires and BBQs.

Does this mean that next year all BBQ's will again be dealt with in the same way or food stands in the hill that have open flames on their grills charging £6.50 a burger will not be permitted or even someone lighting a cigarette with a match or lighter will have it extinguished? Who decides the definition of "camp or light fires?"

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