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In pictures: Royal Ascot opening day

The Queen will be joined by the Duke of Edinburgh, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall in the royal box.

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Racegoers in their hats during day one of Royal Ascot

Racegoers have hailed Royal Ascot’s “fabulous” traditions and fashions as the famous race meeting welcomed thousands of well-dressed punters.

Haute couture designer Isabell Kristensen has for many years been a fan of the Berkshire race meeting which is as much a social occasion as a celebration of sport.

“And I love seeing the fashion, what people are wearing – it’s a fabulous fashion show.”

Racegoer Isabell Kristensen
(Jonathan Brady/PA)
Stephanie Del Valle, the current Miss World, poses for photographers at Royal Ascot (Alastair Grant/AP)
(Alastair Grant/AP)

Stephanie del Valle, the current Miss World, said in her homeland of Puerto Rico she was a big fan of the sport of kings.

She said: “I’ve heard so much about Royal Ascot, my family are all big fans of horse racing and I practically grew up at the race track back home, so coming here is so exciting.”

Lisa Tan from London (left) with Angela Menz from Australia during day one of Royal Ascot
(John Walton/PA)
Royal Ascot
(Jonathan Brady/PA)
The Toostsie Rollers during day one of Royal Ascot
(Jonathan Brady/PA)

Following the arrival of the Queen and royal party in the parade ring, the crowds will pay their respects to those who died in recent events.

Racegoers pose for a photo during day one of Royal Ascot
(John Walton/PA)
Racegoer Jackie St Claire during day one of Royal Ascot
(Jonathan Brady/PA)
Royal Ascot
( Jonathan Brady/PA)
Racegoers enjoy a glass champagne during day one of Royal Ascot
(John Walton/PA)

Also joining the Queen will be the Duke of York and his daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, as well as the Earl and Countess of Wessex, Peter Phillips and his wife Autumn, and Diana, Princess of Wales’ sister Lady Jane Fellowes and her husband Lord Fellowes.

William and Kate will present a trophy during the day, as will Charles and Camilla, double Olympic gold medal-winning showjumper Nick Skelton and actor Laurence Fox, best known for his role in the TV crime drama Lewis.

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