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I'm struggling to parse the following:

1D Epsom Derby? (6)

B _ W _ E _

I'm guessing the answer must be BOWLER (which is a hat, as is a Derby) but don't see the Epsom part at all.

Any suggestions would be welcomed

A bowler (hat) is known as a Derby in the United States, and there is a town in New Hampshire called Epsom. So I suppose you might say an Epsom Derby is a bowler. But it’s pretty thin, and certainly merits the question mark. I hope someone has something better

I thought Epsom was there to indicate British; so a Derby (an American hat) when worn here would be a bowler.

It sounds much better put that way round, Jono!

Thank you quisling / jono. While i agree that jono's explanation makes sense, I still think it's pretty thin!

Only just found this forum. Previously used the excellent Lucian Poll. I had it as BOWLER but couldn’t see why. Thanks for the explanation. Not a great clue. Same as I SHOULD COCOA. Does it mean absolutely? Not on your Nelly.