A RECORD turnout of racegoers helped to raise thousands of pounds for a Worcestershire charity.

A short rain shower did not dampen the spirits of more than 8,000 people who descended on Worcester Racecourse on Saturday for the annual Ladies’ Day.

Jenny Cheshire, hospitality manager, said: “It was absolutely fantastic.

“We had a record crowd for the event of over 8,200.

“It was a very good day and there were some wonderful outfits.”

Women donned their most glamorous outfits and flamboyant hats to have a flutter and also raise money for St Richard’s Hospice – the chosen charity for Ladies’ Day.

A panel of judges including representatives from occasionwear specialists Jacques Vert, Peplow Jewellers, Wyvern FM presenter Hursty and Miss Worcester 2011 Verity Gwilliam chose hospice volunteer Roz Underwood as their best dressed lady for her pink and grey ensemble.

Meanwhile, the charity hosted about 150 people at a special invitation-only event which included lunch, a raffle and an auction with antiques expert and TV personality Philip Serrell.

Among the guests were racehorse owner Jim Lewis and Christine and Neil Hamilton who were also celebrating their wedding anniversary.

Mrs Hamilton, who is set to be the guest speaker at St Richard’s Hospice’s Worcestershire Women of the Year 2011, said: “We’re delighted to be here.

“The weather’s perfect and we’ve brought a lot of cash to lose – I never win anything.”

A record £8,500 was raised through the auction with a trip to trainer Paul Nicholls’ stables, including lunch with Jim Lewis, commanding the highest bid.

Fund-raising director Tricia Cavell said with takings from the raffle, the gate and sponsorship it is hoped the event will have raised in the region of £20,000 for St Richard’s Hospice.

“We raised a record amount on the auction which is amazing, especially in the current climate,” she said.

“We’ve had some guests who were at Ladies’ Day for the first time reserve their tables again for next year and Christine and Neil seemed to have a good time on their anniversary.

“They were very generous with their time, having their pictures taken and talking to guests and it was great to get to know Christine before she comes to speak at Worcestershire Women of the Year.”

• Click here for our picture gallery from the event.