THE sun shone down on Pitchcroft on Saturday, creating a perfect setting for the annual Worcester Racecourse Ladies’ Day.

Hundreds of women from all over the Three Counties and beyond put on their finery for the event, sponsored once again by the city’s CrownGate shopping centre.

The day was as popular as always, with the on-course Severn restaurant and the Croft Suite both booked solid before it even began.

The bright weather meant that sunglasses were the order of the day for many racegoers, worn together with spectacular dresses and hats.

There was also the chance to enter the CrownGate County Enclosure Queen competition, with prizes including shopping vouchers worth £300 and an overnight stay at Stanbrook Abbey in Callow End..

Visitors enjoyed Pimms and prosecco and relished the chance to have a flutter on one or more of the races.

The ladies - and their male companions - were able to enjoy a card of seven races during the afternoon, before dancing to the sounds of top tribute band The Take That Experience in the evening.

Among the racegoers were Sue Nagington of Newport, Shropshire, who was visiting the event with her two daughters, one of whom is studying at the University of Worcester.

She said: “I’ve never been to this before, but Lucia said we should try it and we’re all really looking forward to it.”

Maria Newby of the New Inn, Ombersley Road, was there with a group from the pub .

She said: “It’s our fifth year coming here, and we’re proud to support our local racecourse.”

Debbie Grogan from Whitchurch, Shropshire, a keen racegoer, who this year aims to visit every course in the UK, said: “I come to the races here quite a lot. It’s a fabulous venue and I love the fact that you can sit by the river.”