Armed police flank Royal Ascot revellers as security is boosted at famous race day after terrorist attacks

SECURITY is tight at Royal Ascot today as this year's event got under way in the wake of the recent terror atrocities that have rocked the country.

Heightened security measures to protect the estimated 300,000 visitors have seen armed police patrolling the racecourse and surrounding area and more extensive dog, bag and physical searches.

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Racegoers have also been warned that access to the course will take longer and to allow extra time.

A Thames Valley Police spokesman said: "For the first time last year, armed foot patrols were introduced at Royal Ascot and they were positively received by race-goers and the local community.

"In light of recent national events, these patrols will again take place as part of an extensive range of security measures to ensure public safety.

"These measures include: an increased number of armed response vehicles, uniformed and non-uniformed police officers, vehicle checks and baggage searches."

Revellers appeared to take the heightened security measures in their stride today as they made their way to the racecourse.

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Guests at the meeting today include The Queen and the Duchess of Cambridge.

Superintendent Olly Wright, police silver commander for the event, added: "Thames Valley Police has been involved in policing Royal Ascot for many years and it is a highlight of our operations calendar.

"For all involved, this year's event will feel a little different in light of recent, tragic national events.

“Racegoers and the local community can expect to see an increased police presence and more extensive security measures in place, however the public should be reassured and not alarmed by this.

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"It is our job to protect the public and we have developed strong plans with our partners and the event organisers to manage this.

"Those attending should go about their day as normal and enjoy the special occasion.

"I would just ask that the public support our efforts and be vigilant, look after your belongings and report unusual activity or anything suspicious immediately by dialling 101.

"Our neighbourhood policing team will be part of the operation during the week and, working alongside others, will ensure that local peoples' priorities are not overlooked during the event."

Weather forecasters predicted scorching temperatures throughout the day, with highs of around 28C (82F).

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The increased security comes after Britain was rocked by four terror atrocities in the past four months.

It began in March when jihadist Khalid Masood killed five people and wounded 50 more in a rampage on Westminster Bridge.

May saw twisted suicide bomber Salman Abedi slaughtering 22 people when he detonated a suicide bomb at Manchester Arena last month.

Earlier this month eight people died and 48 were injured when three jihadists drove a van into pedestrians at 50mph on London Bridge before attacking people with hunting knives.

And just this week one person was killed and ten injured when a hired van ploughed into Muslim worshippers leaving a mosque in north London after late-night Ramadan prayers.

At Ascot last year, racegoers got through: 51,000 bottles of champagne; 160,000 glasses of Pimms; 131,000 pints of beer; 5,000 kilos of salmon; 6,000 Cornish crabs; 4,900 lobsters; 89,000 bottles of mineral water and 42,000 bottles of wine.

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