Protesters dressed as suffragettes jump barrier and run onto track at Epsom Derby

Protesters dressed as suffragettes jump barrier and run onto track at Epsom Derby
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Anna Fox

By Anna Fox


Published: 04/06/2022

- 17:01

Updated: 04/06/2022

- 17:02

The women were removed by officers during the Cazoo Derby Festival

Police have removed a group of people who ran on to the track ahead of the Epsom Derby.

The group, who appeared to be protesters with banners and dressed as Suffragettes, fell to the floor after the officers intervened.


Dozens of officers could be seen working to move them, as members of the royal box watched on.

The crowds cheered as they were taken away, with a voice on a Tannoy apologising to spectators.

The protesters were clad in suffragette costumes, and were seen clutching purple and green banners.

Protesters are removed from the track on Derby Day during the Cazoo Derby Festival 2022 at Epsom Racecourse
Protesters are removed from the track on Derby Day during the Cazoo Derby Festival 2022 at Epsom Racecourse
John Walton

The scene was reminiscent of the 1913 protest at the Epsom Derby by suffragette Emily Davidson who through herself at the king's horse.

Princess Anne attended the Derby, while the Queen watched proceedings from home in "comfy clothes" according to her granddaughter Zara Tindall.

Protesters are removed from the track on Derby Day at Epsom
Protesters are removed from the track on Derby Day at Epsom
John Walton

Anne, accompanied by her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, arrived at the sold-out racecourse in Surrey just before 1pm as part of a procession, which included her children Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall, who was with her husband, former rugby player Mike Tindall.

Crowds cheered and waved union flags as they made their way in to the course, with Anne pictured smiling and waving at fans.

Her Majesty did not attend the major sporting event on Saturday, opting to view it on television from Windsor Castle, where she has been sent a souvenir race card to follow the action.

However, the Queen was a winner elsewhere at Worcester, as the royal silks were carried to victory by 7-2 chance Steal A March, with the head of state said to be keeping an eye on racing across the country.

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