Optimistic

In among the regimented lines of green benches on the lawn of the Royal Enclosure at Ascot is a pink one.
The legend goes that a young man proposed to his girlfriend when they were sitting on this bench, and she accepted. The bench was painted pink to create a landmark for other lovers wishing to propose, and also for single ladies to sit on to alert potential beaus.

It seems Ascot always has a story to tug at the heartstrings.

This afternoon, just 10 days after her husband Sir Henry Cecil's death, Lady Cecil, who has taken on his role of trainer, had her first winner - Riposte
The emotional turmoil she was feeling was palpable.

It was wonderful to see The Queen enjoying the victory of her home bred 'Estimate' in the Gold Cup.

We had a lovely day, none of the heavy rain forecast fell over Ascot and it was warm.