Seizing the opportune moment for a party and good weather alike, putitout organised a company trip out to Royal Ascot for Wednesday's race day and invited a few clients who we are currently working with.

We met on a train populated with fellow race-goers, friends and clients alike and from the moment the train began rolling down the rails we were buzzing with excitement. Eager to wine, dine and brush shoulders with the nation’s most prestigious equestrian members, at the similarly prestigious race meet.

 

Upon arrival we were ushered through a delightful building site, past the forklift and in through a padlocked gate… Not quite the entrance we expected, however, we were in. And that's all that mattered.

 

The unorthodox entrance actually put us in pretty good stead as we had actually entered through a staff entrance and thus come into the racecourse right next to where our marquee was pitched. Ideal. Greeted by a devilishly tasty Pimm's on ice we made our way to our table.

 

Before long the buffet was open and we began helping ourselves to the starters, and a variety of soups and salads found itself onto our table and the dining commenced.

 

Throughout the meal the whole marquee was alive with the sounds of traditional British harmonies from outside, combined with the over excited hubbub of one another, eagerly anticipating the arrival of her Royal Highness and the afternoon's racing.

 

Bets placed and it was out onto the lawn to welcome her Majesty, carted in the traditional, regal manner, she looked radiant. Particularly after a long few weeks, I should think she would like nothing less than to put her feet up in front of the Emmerdale Omnibus and slurp a Cup-a-Soup.  Thankfully for us, however, she didn't.

 

Royal reception over with, it was time to get 'serious' as we egged on our various bets, I think we'll leave it there when I say some were more successful than others…

 

The day went at some pace and it wasn't before long we found ourselves dancing in the stands and having a downright party on the train. A few public house visits on our journey home and we called it a night there. Some later than others.

 

For a full image documentation on the day's proceedings, please click here.