Increased race costs
ORGANISERS of the country’s oldest horse race are facing increasing costs through extra health and safety requirements.
For the first time, temporary traffic lights will replace police stopping motorists as horses dash across the busy A614 to the finish line in the Kiplingcotes Derby.
Organisers are also having to spend £370 on an ambulance and are having to kit out stewards in high-visability jackets.
This year the firm supplying the lights is picking up the £1,200 tab, but trustee Guy Stephenson is unsure what will happen next year.
Mr Stephenson said they didn’t have a problem with the ambulance, but increasing costs were a concern, adding: “It is a bit of a worry whether we can keep this thing going on or not. I hope we can and at least get to our 600 year (anniversary).”
Market Weighton town council is helping by giving the race £200 this year and £500 next.
East Riding Council’s head of streetscene John Skidmore said: “In 2010, in line with guidance from Humberside Police, who historically have handled traffic management for the event, the police requested the council work with the organisers to improve traffic and crowd management, stewarding and marshalling and ensure public safety at the same time as enjoying this terrific event.
“The council is keen to see major events like the Kiplingcotes Derby, which attracts a significant turnout of spectators, continue to be enjoyed, but that this is done so in a safe manner.”
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Weather for Driffield
Wednesday 19 June 2013
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 11 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 11 C to 15 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
