Hopes high historic Loretta Lodge will remain as racing yard

Loretta Lodge, “the jewel in the crown” of Epsom training yards according to local trainer Simon Dow, is being advertised to let at £65,000 per annum by equestrian property specialists Windsor Clive International.

Formerly the base from where Terry Mills sent out a host of big-race winners, Loretta Lodge was sold three months ago.

It is understood that the historic stable has been bought by a businessman who wants it to remain as a racing yard, much to the relief of all those involved with the Surrey training centre.

Longserving Epsom trainer Dow said on Wednesday: “It’s a hugely historic and very successful stable which dates back to the Brian Swift era.

Simon Dow: yard is 'jewel in the Epsom crown'Credit: Mark Cranham (racingpost.com/photos)

“It’s the jewel in the crown in Epsom, and obviously we’re all keen to see it retained as a racing stable. I'm optimistic that will prove to be the case.”

Nick Patton, managing director of Jockey Club Estates, echoed Dow’s sentiments.

“Loretta Lodge has been vacant since Robert Mills [Terry’s son] handed in his licence,” he said.

“It’s a great location and a good yard. Speaking with my Epsom hat on, I'm obviously very keen to see it occupied.”

Will Harford, who is in charge of lettings, sales and purchases at Windsor Clive International, reported: “Loretta Lodge has been on with us for three months, and the intention is to keep it as a racing yard.

“The discussions I’ve had with the owner have been very much geared towards it remaining as a racing yard. Our involvement would signify a training tenant.”

Loretta Lodge, which is being advertised as a “47-box training yard with quick access to Epsom Downs gallops and excellent staff accommodation”, was home to many good horses when Terry Mills trained from there.

Where Or When, owned by bookmaker John Humphreys, landed the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot in 2002 by two lengths from 1-2 favourite Hawk Wing under Kevin Darley, while Bobzao’s victory in the Group 2 1994 Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot was at the expense of the previous year’s St Leger hero Bob’s Return.

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