A COUPLE of things to keep in mind for Royal Ascot this week. Firstly, it is a long week. It is five days, Tuesday to Saturday (inclusive) these days, since the royal meeting expanded to envelop ‘Ascot Heath’. Think less Queen Mary, more Queen Alexandra.

Pace yourself. Similar to Cheltenham for National Hunt racing, you will see lots of familiar names, lots of them available at prices that will tempt. Be tempted for sure, but dig deeply before you commit.