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ROADS were closed around Epsom Downs Racecourse after strong winds lifted a section of roof off the Duchess's Stand on Tuesday morning.

The metal roof covering part of the stand, which was opened in 2009 by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall following a £28m redevelopment, came loose at around 9.40am, littering the surrounding area with insulation.

Staff were also evacuated from the racecourse and sent home while emergency services made the area safe.

Surrey Police closed nearby roads including Ashley Road, Langley Vale Road, Old London Road, Grandstand Road and Downs Road.

The routes were not reopened until around 4.30pm and police said the situation would be reviewed "if high winds pick up again to ensure public safety".

A spokesman for the racecourse said only 5% of the roof had been lifted but that high winds had scattered the insulation over a wide area.

The spokesman added: “Following severe weather conditions and turbulent winds at Epsom Downs Racecourse this morning, the Duchess's Stand roof has been damaged.

"There were no injuries to anyone but as a result and after liaising with the emergency services, the racecourse has been evacuated and all non-essential members of staff sent home.”