Symbolic poppies have been placed at Epsom Downs Racecourse to recognise the important role the venue played during World War One.

Epsom Council, the Royal British Legion and Epsom Downs Racecourse have placed the large poppies next to a statute of racehorse Generous by the parade ring in the Queen’s Stand and another within the stand itself.

The racecourse played a significant role locally during World War One. 

In addition to being a military encampment, the two grandstands were also used as hospitals.

On January 22, 1915, an inspection by Lord Kitchener was held in blizzard conditions on Epsom Downs and over 20,000 troops were drawn-up for inspection.

A plaque by the Generous statue at the racecourse commemorates this event and is where one of the poppies has been positioned.  The other poppy is within the Queen’s Stand.

The poppies will stay up until November 11, 2014, Remembrance Day.

Simon Durrant, general manager at the racecourse, said: "We feel it is very important to commemorate the First World War and remember all of the soldiers both locally and nationally who lost their lives and fought for their country.

"The racecourse played a large role locally and therefore it is fitting that we should have the commemoration poppies here on display for all our racegoers and guests to admire."

Dedicate a tree for £20 to someone lived or served in the First World War. Call 0800 915 1914 or go to www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/mylocalpaper