THE DORSETSHIRE GOLD CUP FOR 1815A GEORGE III SILVER-GILT CUP AND COVER

Horse racing at Blandford started in the 16th century. By the early 19th century the races were held bi-annually. It was both a sporting and social occasion. The Sporting Magazine for 1815 reports that 'The course was well attended, and sport on both days was excellent. The company at the balls was more numerous that for many years past, and the ball room was graced by the fashion and beauty the neighbouring counties, as well as by those of the the county of Dorset.'

Sir Richard Carr Glynn 1st Bt. (1755-1838), of Gaunt's House, Dorset, the steward of Blandford Races, was knighted in 1790, the year he served as Sheriff of London. He was London Mayor of London in 1798 and was created a baronet in 1800. He was educated at Westminster School and on his father's death in 1773 he became a partner in his father's bank, Vere, Glyn and Hallifax, renamed Hallifax, Mills, Glyn and Mitton. His fourth son, George, also a successful banker, was created Baron Wolverton in 1869.