A SPECIAL day in the Pitchcroft calendar saw thousands flock to Worcester Racecourse for this year's Ladies' Day.

Thousands turned out in head-turning hats, fabulous frocks and designer dresses for a day of races and entertainment, all in aid of St Richard's Hospice.

Bets were placed and Pimm's was sloshed down on a sunny Saturday where a total of seven races were settled.

Georgina Dakin, 32, of Malvern, said: "I am here as part of a group of 25 for a hen-do.

"We have come dressed as gangsters and in monochrome dresses.

"This is my first time at Ladies' Day in Worcester, I've been to Cheltenham before, but we have all had a really good time.

"We have put a few bets on too and it's great to get dressed up and have a good time here."

Fellow first-timer to Worcester Race Course Carol Belwood, of Rowley Regis, near Birmingham, said: "This is mine and my husband's first time to any race event and it's great, a lot of fun.

"These events incorporate everyone, and give the chance for ladies to be centre stage for the day, and that's always good.

"We put some bets on and lost, which is a shame, but we will still come back next year for sure."

Jayne Stewart, 33, of Worcester, said:"My second time to ladies' day and again I wasn't disappointed.

"Fabulous atmosphere, great weather in the end, just a shame I didn't get any winners. "

"Well done Worcester racecourse."

It wasn't just bets that got the competitive juices flowing, as there were competitions for Best Dressed Lady, Best Hat and Little Lady for the under 12 year-olds to be settled too.

Take That tribute band, Re-Take That, kept the atmosphere alive throughout the evening by performing live music after the races for all visitors.