Blue shades favouritism in the Queen's millinery race

Ladbrokes have opened a book on what the colour of the Queen's hat will be on the opening day of Royal Ascot, with blue the early choice of punters.

The firm make blue their early market leader at 3-1 followed by yellow (7-2), green (4-1) and pink (9-2), purple and red are next-best at 6-1 and 8-1.

Spokesperson Nicola McGeady said: "The colour of the Queen’s hat at Royal Ascot always sets tongues wagging with this year being no different and the early money suggests she will wear blue."

No-fly zone

Ascot racecourse will also be the subject of a no-fly zone for drones throughout the five-day royal meeting with chief superintendent Gavin Wong of Thames Valley Police saying: "Members of the public who own drones should be aware that a restriction of flying zone will be in place in the vicinity of Royal Ascot and this will be monitored and enforced throughout the week.

"This Restriction of Flying Regulation is a routine measure for a large scale events such as this, and is part of the broad range of security measures that are in place to deliver a safe and secure week for everyone."

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