THERE'S been outrage after the Epsom Derby revealed the cheapest grandstand will be sponsored by POUNDLAND.
The Derby is thought of as representing the epitome of thoroughbred horse racing and is the highlight of the social calendar, with even the Queen in attendance every year.
However, the naming of the Hill has sparked a division of opinion in the racing community.
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The Jockey Club’s London regional director, Phil White, said: “It’s fantastic news for the event and also for British racing.
"We’re looking to build and reinvigorate the Hill and having a partner to work alongside us represents a great opportunity.
“The Derby Festival attracts such a wide range of society and that’s what makes it unique.
"It’s known as the people’s race and the activities and all the people who go on to the Hill is one of the reasons for that.
"The Hill is unique, and having a high street retailer like Poundland associated with it can only be good for its long-term growth.
“It’s great to have the certainty, Investec are huge supporters of British racing and are dedicated to the Derby.
"We love working with them and we’re delighted that they have introduced Poundland, and we’re really pleased to introduce a new sponsor to racing.”
However, the Racing Post argued the rebranding was a slap in the face to Hill-goers.
Tom Kerr wrote: "For most of us, a summer's day at the races with friends and family is about dressing up, letting the hair down and leaving behind the cares and strains of day-to-day life, not having them rubbed in your face by the condescending branding of oblivious corporate suits.
"Anyone on Poundland Hill next month will not just be reminded of the fact that they have taken the budget option to Derby day, they will know that it was those in top hats and tails sipping champagne in plush boxes across the racecourse who thought this was an appropriate rebranding exercise."
Here's what the world of Twitter had to say on the move...
With Epsom having Poundland Hill, with ambulance staff be sponsored and known as Pound Stretchers?
— Chris Cooper 💚📻📺⚽🏈🏏🍓🥔🧅🥬🍅🥦🧄🥒🌻 (@ChrisCoopsSport) May 11, 2017Epsom: "They're coming down Poundland Hill"
Ascot: "Into Aldi Bottom they go"
York: "Welcome to the Lidlsmire" #epsom
Haven't been on the Hill at Epsom for a few years, but judging by the people there that time, Poundland is a perfect choice of sponsor
— Gary Clark (@GaryClark82) May 11, 2017Always amazed at disgust for working class brands when they leave their homeland. Epsom was always a cockney day out. Shrewd move Poundland.
— Tim Harrison (@Horseshoe0) May 11, 2017MOST READ IN SPORT
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