Prince Charles beams with Camilla as they lead Royals at Ascot – but the Queen, 96, stays home

PRINCE Charles and Camilla led the way on day two of Royal Ascot while the Queen followed the action from home.

The Prince of Wales, 73, and Duchess of Cornwall, 74, were once again front and centre during the carriage procession at the racing extravaganza in Berkshire this afternoon.

The couple, dressed in perfectly coordinated outfits for the second day running, were followed by the Earl and Countess of Wessex.

Princess Beatrice, who yesterday walked through the gates with the other punters, travelled in the third carriage with husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi.

Her Majesty, a passionate racehorse owner and breeder, was not in attendance.

The 96-year-old is likely watching the races at home in her "comfy clothes" as she did for the Epsom Derby during the Platinum Jubilee weekend, according to her granddaughter Zara Tindall.

Racegoers will be disappointed by the absence of the head of state - but they were still treated to a right royal show in sweltering heat.

And there is still hope the Queen will make an appearance before the week is out.

Her Windsor Castle home is just six miles from the venue, and Ascot is said to be one of her favourite events of the sporting calendar.

In the official programme, she described the races as "thrilling" and "outstanding".

And she has 10 horses in the festival, with many starting favourite.

Russell and Tracy Rose, who have been regulars at Ascot for decades, said it was a shame the Queen missed another day but sympathised with the monarch.

Russell said: "She's an elderly lady and is conserving her energy and seems to be conscious about what she does.

"But I wouldn't be surprised to see her make an appearance later this week if she can.

"Everybody would love to see her here."

The Queen's horse Reach For The Moon, which missed out on being entered for the Epsom Derby, is favourite with some bookies to win the Hampton Court Stakes on Thursday with jockey Frankie Dettori taking the reins.

Traditionally Her Majesty arrives as part of the carriage procession, but if she does make it this week it will likely be by limousine.

Among the thousands to descend on the racecourse were some of TV's biggest stars.

This Morning presenter Holly Willoughby joined TV host Dermot O'Leary and ITV's Charlotte Hawkins for the occasion.