Wacky races! Ladies Day fashions let off the rein
THE annual parade of racy fashions at the Cheltenham Festival had been under threat from Storm Gareth.
But the forecast gales failed to materialise and even a gusty breeze couldn’t rein in the eye- catching styles on Ladies Day.
With hats and fascinators firmly pinned or held in place, female revellers refused to let the chilly weather deter them – and as they sipped champagne they were grateful that at least Tuesday’s torrential rain had gone away.
While some wrapped up sensibly, others were brave enough to display bare shoulders, plunging necklines and short hemlines on a cold March day. And although the going was soft underfoot in places, that did not prevent most women giving their stilettos an outing.
Hat designer Tracy Rose managed to keep her outsized headgear – appropriately in the shape of a rose – in place. She teamed the red and white design with a red coat, red shoes and outlandish fingernails.
The Duchess of Cornwall, an honorary member of the Jockey Club, made sure she held on tightly to her fur-brimmed hat as she walked the site. Camilla presented the trophy for the Queen Mother Champion Chase to Nicky Henderson, veteran trainer of the recordbreaking winning horse Altior.
Among royals in attendance were Princess Anne, and Zara and Mike Tindall. Celebrities included TV cook Mary Berry and Good Morning Britain presenter Charlotte Hawkins.
The second day of the annual festival had been under threat, with winds of up to 45mph predicted. But following an early morning inspection, the racing – and frock parade – received the go-ahead. Today a jockey who has used horse racing to rebuild his life after a prison sentence will ride despite having been due in court.
Joe Colliver, 27, was jailed for ten months in 2016 for perverting the course of justice. However, he had been due before Harrogate magistrates today charged with drink-driving. But his lawyers managed to delay the case, so Colliver is free to ride Sam Spinner in the Stayers’ Hurdle. Cheltenham Festival pullout –
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