Fathers’ rights protesters plan to target the Derby tomorrow, according to an anonymous tip-off being taken seriously by Surrey Police.

The iconic race was famously disrupted by suffragette Emily Davison who died under the King’s horse 102 years ago.

Thousands of racegoers, including the Queen, descend on Epsom Downs Racecourse for the race and millions around the world watch it on TV.

A source, who requested anonymity, yesterday told this newspaper: "Please ensure that is (sic) Tattenham Corner is well protected on Epsom Derby Day.

"The Derby is being targeted by fathers’ rights protesters who have tickets. An attempt will be made during the race with banners."

Police are investigating the matter while a spokesman at the racecourse said he would immediately follow up on the tip-off and their security is of "the very highest proportion".

Such protests are strongly discouraged, and he added: "It’s extremely dangerous to come on to the racecourse during the race."

Dads’ rights campaigner Martin Matthews, who threw himself on to the track at Kempton Park in 2004, said he did not know about any plans for this weekend.

He added with a laugh: "How irresponsible of them. No-one has invited me to come play yet. I have done that once before and that’s enough for me, I don’t go anywhere near the Derby."

About ten years ago Mr Matthews said he was inspired by the suffragettes on the spur of the moment and "jumped in front of horses" at Kempton Park.

Mr Matthews said he clambered over a hedge using a table, fell in front of the horses and was chased by the police. He said: "It was not very elegant. I have a caution for trespassing on the racecourse.

"I won’t be going to Epsom Derby. The day itself is too busy, there are too many people. The moment I get there, I will freak plod out whatever I do."

A spokesman for Surrey Police said it had received a single report of a potential protest tomorrow. 

She said: "Officers and event organisers will work together to ensure a safe and secure festival. Any peaceful and lawful protest will be facilitated."

As well preventing disruption by fathers' rights protesters and other campaigners, security forces at the Derby also guard against possible attacks by terrorist organisations.

Last year a magazine, published by Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, ran an article encouraging terrorists to target high-profile sporting events including the Derby.

Someone calling themselves AQ Chef, wrote in Inspire magazine: "At the end of the summer we have Epsom, whereby horse races are attended by thousands from around the kingdom including the Queen."