Warwick Racecourse is gearing up for its most glamorous event as racegoers dress to impress at one of the region’s annual social highlights.

Ladies Night is the second instalment of the Qatar Airways May Racing Carnival at Warwick and will take place on the evening of Saturday, May 11.

The twilight raceday includes the popular Fashions-On-The-Field competition, which will this year feature three categories including Best Dressed Individual, Best Dressed Couple and Best Hat.

This year’s contest will be hosted by Karl Ude-Martinez and a past winner has shared her secrets to success for competitors targeting this year’s crowns.

Gill Carpenter, from Bromsgrove and owner of Gillys Millenary, was the winner of Best Hat last year.

She specialises in creating hats for racegoers, and says the key to winning is standing out from the crowd. Gill said:

“Go for something eye-catching, don’t be afraid of colour and don’t be afraid of looking a little bit different.  

“The fascinator has had its day and there is move back to more traditional hats, with a bigger brim.

“But, more than anything, it’s important you feel comfortable in what you’re wearing.

“I was absolutely delighted to win Best Hat last year, it was the first winner’s prize I’ve ever had. We’re looking forward to coming to Ladies Night again this year.”

Prizes will be awarded for first to third place in the Best Dressed Grand Champion category, with first in Best Hat and Best Couple.

The prizes include two return tickets to Doha, courtesy of Qatar Airways, a BMW Z4 for a weekend of your choice, spa packages at the Ardencote Manor Hotel, glamping for 4 at Warwick Castle, a £50 meal voucher for The Bell at Alderminster, Coates and Seely sparkling wine and a bespoke, handcrafted silk dress provided by Warp & Woof.

Gates open at 3.30pm, with the first of seven races going off at 5.30pm and the last underway at 8.30pm.

Ladies Night will also feature live music and entertainment, including an Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga tribute act after racing has come to a close.

Andre Klein, General Manager at Warwick Racecourse, said:

"We’re expecting a fantastic crowd for Ladies Night again this year and it has a reputation as a wonderful occasion.

“There are some brilliant prizes on offer in the Fashions-on-the-Field competition this year, and we’d encourage ladies, and gents, to enter into the spirit of the occasion and take part.

“On the track we’ll have some quality racing to enjoy too and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to Warwick on the evening.”

Main enclosure tickets start from £17.50, with a range of hospitality packages also available.

For more information about Ladies Night, including competition entry and tickets, and the Qatar Airways May Racing Carnival go to www.warwickracecourse.co.uk or call 01926 450560.