Salute to showground founder Douglas as 80th birthday marked

But because he was born on leap day- February 209- in 1928, he has only been able to celebrate 20 birthdays in his life.

However there have been consolations- his family and Hickstead- and he is very devoted to both.

The showground is a true family concern. Daughters Lizziel, Chloe and Daisy with sons Edward, John and Charlie, are all deeply involved in running the world's best known outdoor equestrian venue.

For full feature and more pictures see Sussex Horse World, West Sussex Gazette, March 19