Alongside the 2026 HWPA Derby Awards, this year's Lunch is being run as a fundraiser for our friend and colleague, the long-serving Daily Mail racing correspondent and former HWPA President, Marcus Townend.

For those of you unaware, Marcus had a serious bike accident shortly before last year's Lunch. He is currently still in hospital. We are aiming to raise a six-figure sum, which will enable him to be able to go home, with considerable funds required both to adapt his house and to pay towards his care.