EPSOM chiefs have defended the fireworks display that took place moments before the Derby started.
The rockets were let off from the top of the famous grandstand as the runners made their way to the start.
Fireworks were part of the celebrations at a sold-out Epsom that celebrated the Platinum Jubilee
Horses are flight animals and typically spooked by sudden and loud noises.
Thankfully the majority of the field had made it to the mile and a half start, the other side of Epsom.
But a handful of runners seemed to be effected by the fireworks and it has led to criticism from those who witnessed the events, both in the race and from the sidelines.
Smoke was also let off as the fireworks were sent into the sky and, unconnected, a number of protesters also made it onto the track at the same time.