2-888-520 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Epsom Spring Meeting - Sketch on the Downs - Preparing to Start for the Great Metropolitan Stakes, 1850. Horseracing in Surrey. 'The racing was excellent, and appeared to give great satisfaction to all assembled to witness it. In "the Great Metropolitan" race, Mr. Gratwicke's Cheerful, the favourite, who was expected to win easily, came in an indifferent third; Colonel Anson's Backbiter coming in the winner, and Major Pitt's Mounseer, second. During the Metropolitan, we regret to state, that the large Stand, between the Grand Stand and the winning-post, broke down with a sudden crash, carrying with, it all the spectators, between 400 and 500 in number. Several persons were severely injured, but, we believe, no actual loss of life occurred. All possible assitance was rendered to the persons injured, who were conveyed into Epsom for surgical aid'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850.