A horse race with a difference will grace the racetrack at Sandown Park next week.

Trying to get their hands on the trophy, businesses will be donning hooves and a saddle themselves and galloping to the finish line.

At the evening of summer racing, pantomime horses will be out in force for the mayor of Elmbridge’s annual pantomime horse race, with Michael Aspel setting them on their way after the third race.

Each comedy horse is ready and raring to go, hoping to be the winner of the 100m sprint and picking up the cup at the finish line.

The evening, which will contain six races as well as the pantomime race, is in aid of the mayor’s chosen charity for his mayoral year, Riding for the Disabled.

The night will have all the usual excitement surround the race track along with the spectacle that is the pantomime race, making it the perfect evening out for all the family during the school holidays.

Mayor of Elmbridge’s annual pantomime; Sandown Park racecourse, Portsmouth Road, Esher; August 8, doors open 3.40pm, first race 5.40pm; £18 on the day, £16 advance, under 18s free; call 01372 470047 or visit sandown.co.uk.