Full Circle

In the 18th and 19th centuries Chelmsford Races at Galleywood were the most eagerly anticipated event on the Essex calendar. They offered something for everyone -- the aristocracy flaunted their wealth and power; the working classes enjoyed a rare day off and crooks and conmen fleeced the unwary. This book gives a rare insight into this long forgotten world. Flat racing later gave way to steeplechasing, often featuring the eccentric Victorian adventurer Sir Claude de Crespigny of Maldon. Racing ended at Galleywood in 1935 but with the dawn of the 21st century came a new course at Great Leighs and once again the cheers of race-goers echoed across the Essex countryside.