RACEGOERS CHEER ON THE KING AT ROYAL ASCOT

King Charles and Queen Camilla were joined by royal family members and a host of famous faces for one of the highlights of the summer

- REBECCA RUSSELL

Members of the royal family and a host of famous faces descended on Ascot Racecourse for one of the most glamorous events of the British summer season.

Coming hot on the heels of two ceremonies steeped in tradition – Trooping the Colour and the Order of the Garter procession – last week’s Royal Ascot race meeting gave the family an opportunity to come together and celebrate one of their greatest shared passions.

Just like his mother the late Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles, 75, and his wife Queen Camilla, 76, have a deep interest in all things equestrian and showed their support as they arrived on the parade ground on the first day, looking ready for the races.

“The King was almost back to his best at Ascot. I always think he looks rather dapper in his morning suit and top hat, which is always complemented by a snazzy waistcoat, tie and pocket handkerchief,” former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond exclusively tells OK!. “And Camilla is smashing it out of the park these days with her colourful and elegant styles.”

Charles’ return to events like Ascot came after his doctors gave him the green light to get back to a fuller diary following treatment for cancer this year. The pleasure the King is experiencing from his new-found freedom – or being “allowed out of his cage”, as he put it – is clear to see.

“Ascot is always a very busy and distracting time – and being busy helps to put any health worries you might have to the back of your mind,” says Jennie. “He also has his wife at his side and immersing themselves in the joy Ascot brings shows that he is ready to enjoy a hopefully restful and relaxing summer.”

As for how their shared passion for horses brings the couple even closer, she says, “Charles and Camilla share a great enthusiasm for the races and that is a huge bonus for them as a couple.