A £2m prize fund and free parking: Epsom’s Derby reboot prepares for its first test

Epsom Racecourse is preparing for the 247th running of the Derby on Saturday, having unveiled an ambitious five-year revival plan in December aimed at restoring the race's prestige. Last year's event attracted only 22,312 paying spectators, prompting organisers to introduce incentives including a £2 million prize fund and free parking to boost attendance. The initiative faces an immediate test, as officials are eager to demonstrate early signs of a turnaround rather than waiting years for results.