Furniture Giant DFS To Support Hickstead Derby

Furniture giant DFS is to sponsor the prestigious Derby class at Hickstead's British Jumping Derby Meeting (June 3-6) at the All England Jumping Course.

Prize money for the DFS Derby, final class of the four-day meeting, will increase to a total of £75,000.

Lord Kirkham, founder and chairman of the company, with 69 stores and almost 2,500 staff nationwide, said: "I am proud to support the Hickstead British Jumping Derby. It allows DFS to put its name in front of a diverse and discerning audience. The Derby meeting attracts huge attention from those who recognise the quality of the sport - just the sort of people who will appreciate DFS furniture."

The DFS Derby was introduced in 1961, only eight years before DFS launched on to the market. It draws competitors from the world over, attracted by the challenge of Hickstead's permanent obstacles which include the 10ft 6ins Derby Bank and the challenging three elements of the Devil's Dyke.

"We welcome support from a market leader like DFS," said Hickstead owner Douglas Bunn. "We are flattered that Lord Kirkham has chosen to link his company name with our Derby and grateful for his support of showjumping."

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