Heels and a hat . . . or bulletproof vest and a gun? The two faces of Ladies’ Day at Epsom
ONE came armed with a floral hat and a sleek black handbag, the other with a semiautomatic firearm and bulletproof vest.
But while their outfits had little in common, both women seemed to be enjoying Ladies’ Day at Epsom racecourse yesterday – despite security warnings.
Surrey Police had advised punters to ‘remain vigilant’ and said that a number of armed police officers were attending the event as a precaution.
Chief Superintendent Dave Miller said: ‘There is no specific threat to the Investec Derby Festival but the national terror threat is severe, meaning an attack is highly likely.’ The Epsom Derby is seen as a highlight of the racing calendar, attracting thousands of people every year.
Yesterday’s racegoers managed to dodge the torrential downpours that swept across swathes of the country, while enjoying temperatures of around 68F (20C). The heavy rain, which led to the Met Office issuing yellow warnings for northern and western parts of the UK, also missed the cricket at Headingley as England took on Pakistan.