THE contrast between Epsom’s Derby meeting and Royal Ascot is a stark one, and always has been, although there are some common threads beyond top-class racing. Epsom’s morning suits are confined to the Queen’s Stand and feel a little bit like a dress rehearsal for Ascot a few weeks later, and the main grandstand doesn’t have a dress code, merely a request that outfits are not vulgar or derogatory (and that Son Heung Min shirt can go back in the hamper, Jeff).

At Ascot, you better believe there is a dress code, even for those not in the Royal Enclosure, and there was some hilarity surrounding the news that those fashionistas who eschew socks with their outfits were forced to buy some on arrival. This bit of news had me conflicted, I must admit; I’ve been forced into a choice between buying a hideous tie or being escorted out of a racecourse enclosure in the past, and the compulsory wearing of clothing items is an invidious practice which raises my hackles automatically.