Sandown Park held its annual Christmas tree decoration competition last week, and the Elmbridge Guardian was invited to judge alongside the racecourse’s chief executive David Mackinnon.

Children from Esher High School, Rowan Preparatory School in Claygate and Sayers Court in Addlestone were invited to design their own horseracing-themed decorations for the festive Tingle Creek meeting this weekend.

Nearly 300 decorations were entered and, after careful consideration, a decoration designed by tear 8 Esher High School pupil Rachel Shanahan was decided to have the Xmas factor.

The decoration, a Christmas box with windows and a horse inside, has won Rachel and her family a trip to Chessington World of Adventures, plus a day out for her family at the Tingle Creek Day on Saturday, December 5.

Her decoration will also appear in Sandown Park’s giant Snow Globe, which will be situated on the roundabout outside the racecourse’s main entrance throughout December.

Mr Mackinnon thanked all the school children who had entered the competition.

He said: “Choosing the winner this year was a tough decision due to the high standard of decorations that were entered.

“So much effort has been put into the designs, ranging from festive Christmas baubles, baked dough horses, artistic drawings plus other creative designs. All of the decorations will be on display in Esher Hall for the two day Tingle Creek meeting which starts on Friday.

“This is going to be a fantastic two days of racing with free festive entertainment throughout the Saturday and as always, free entry to under 18s.”

Three decorations were also chosen as runners-up - a jockey silk designed by Esher High pupil Amy Heather, a Christmas racing scene painted on a paper bauble by Esher High pupil Lana Hylands and a cut out paper horse, decorated with gold, green and red ribbons by Rowan pupil Francesca Watkin.

To book tickets for the Tingle Creek meeting, call 01372 470047 or visit sandown.co.uk.

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