Army top brass at Colchester Garrison have stepped in to offer a venue for the town's first chariot racing in 1,700 years.

It had been hoped to hold the races this summer at Colchester United Football Club's ground in Layer Road.

However, despite the club's management giving strong backing for the idea, it now looks unlikely there will be "a window of opportunity" to use the ground.

History fans David Judge and Bob Bacon came up with the idea after the amazing discovery of a Roman circus stadium at Colchester Garrison. And the Gazette is backing their fundraising idea.

At the first meeting of the newly-formed Colchester Roman Chariot Racing group last night, Mr Judge revealed how Colonel Tony Barton, commander of Colchester Garrison, had pledged his support for the event.

The races have provisionally set the date for the racing to be held on Sunday, June 12.

Anyone interested is welcome to attend the group's next meeting being held at 4pm next Thursday, at the town hall.

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Published Friday, February 11, 2005

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