We met up with old friends at this elegant old course in the shadow of Windsor Castle. It runs a race night on most summer Monday evenings and while there is no dress code, it was great to see a good proportion of ladies had dressed for the occasion, fascinators an’all. Our table was in the Blues & Royals enclosure which, next to the finish line, was a perfect location from which to view the course, graze and and drink Pimms. You also rate a Tote assistant who will make bets and pay any winnings for you.

For the first two events on the seven-race programme we bet off the card (I trust I sound like I know what I’m talking about) but soon gravitated towards track-side. A small disabled enclosure separates one from the hoi-polloi by a velvet rope, my first-ever. Emboldened by a small win (the nag’s name, Castellation, sounds a bit like “castration” and we just had the dog done) we inspected the runners for the next race in the parade ring. Quite small horses but beautifully muscled and with some lovely details shaved into their flanks. You don’t see that on Sky Sports.

£2.40, if I recall

The racing was exciting and the finishes were close. Access throughout posed no problems. While nearest to the action, our own table was some distance away from the enclosure’s entrance so we inspected the catering area (if you want to make a fuss, bear in mind you will be coming and going all evening). A jazz band played after the final race but we had to get home.

Weather clearly plays a big part in the success of an event like this, but we had a ball. Thoroughly recommended.