David Dimbleby returns to Epsom with words that do not bode well for Johnson

After a four-decade absence, broadcasting legend David Dimbleby made a welcome return to Derby day, where he celebrated one of the race's 19th century winners and offered an intriguing take on the Conservative leadership battle.

Dimbleby came to Epsom as a guest of his Sussex neighbour Josephine Carr, who has written a book about jockey Charlie Carr, who in 1897 won his third Derby on subsequent Triple Crown champion Galtee More, having been previously warned off by the Jockey Club for nine years.

"It's the first time I've been to the Derby in about 40 years, although I'm afraid I can't remember who won the last time I was here," said Dimbleby, who, like all those in the bus party, was dressed in Victorian attire as part of the 1897 theme.

Charlie Wood's distant relative Ian Wood came to Epsom with a morning coat updated to show the colours Charlie sported aboard 1897 Derby winner Galtee MoreCredit: Lee Mottershead

Talking about her book, Our Honest Charlie Wood, Carr said: "He had the most extraordinary life. He was born in the slums of Hull and rose to be champion jockey but then was banished from the sport, only to come back and win the Triple Crown in 1897. The reason we're here today is to celebrate his magnificent comeback and victory."

Asked who he thinks might emerge victorious in the battle to replace Theresa May as prime minister, BBC stalwart Dimbleby played a straight bat.

"I would rather bet on the Tory leadership race than the Derby – but I wouldn't tell you where I would put my money," said Dimbleby, before offering an opinion that does not bode well for Boris Johnson.

"It's like a Grand National," added Dimbleby. "The favourite might well fall at Becher's or collide with another horse. We shall see."

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