The timing of the Derby is to be pushed back in a bid to boost television ratings for the world’s greatest flat race.

This year, the Derby, to be held on Saturday, June 6, will start 30 minutes later than usual at 4.30pm.

The day before, the Oaks will also start at 4.30pm. They will remain the fifth contests on seven-race cards, which will begin 25 minutes later at 2pm on both days.

Since moving to Channel 4 from the BBC in 2013, the television audiences for the Derby have fallen, with 1.5m tuning in for Australia’s victory last June compared to 3.3m for the BBC’s last broadcast of the race in 2012.

Television bosses hope the later time will reach a wider audience.

Rupert Trevelyan, regional director of London for Jockey Club Racecourses, said: "We believe that from an attendance perspective, in particular for our sponsor and hospitality guests, this adjustment to our timings will enhance the overall enjoyment of their day.

"At this stage this is the extent of our changes to race times but we will review following the 2015 Investec Derby Festival.

"We are grateful to our colleagues at Channel 4 for accommodating our request."