Most UK punters bet based on horse's name, claims survey

Far more punters on this Saturday’s Vodafone Derby will chose their selections on nice names or colours than serious form study, according to a nationwide survey by British equine welfare charity The Brooke.

As many as 60% of bettors – and 67% of female ones – go with names, with the top five favourites being Lightning, Dobbin, Winner, Lucky and, surprisingly, Loser.

With none of those contained in this year’s field, it could be the colours of the silks which are used – almost one in seven use that as a guideline.

The Brooke, which are producing a sweepstake kit for Epsom, also found nearly three-quarters of British adults have gambled on racing at some point with 43% or 21 million doing so this year.

Brooke patron and racing legend Peter O’Sullevan said: “I would like to wish everyone placing a bet on the Derby, the best of luck!

“And if you’re successful, spare a thought for the 90 million working horses and donkeys in the developing world which need a helping hand.”