Her Maj was seen sheltering from the showers, clutching her own umbrella, when she arrived at the Royal Ascot to cheer on her own horses.

The Queen was joined by Prince Charles, Camilla, and the Viscount Brookeborough, in her horse-draw carriage.

The 93-year-old royal spent most of yesterday speaking with her family but was keen to watch the races this afternoon.

Holding her own transparent umbrella, the monarch beamed in blue coat and matching hat, black gloves and her signature handbag.

The Duke of Edinburgh retired from his life-long royal duties — which included 22,219 solo engagements and 5,496 speeches — in May 2017.

Prince Philip was allowed to retire from his roles and responsibilities.

Her Majesty has not yet scaled back her public duties, so she still attends countless events and meetings and takes care of her other duties.

The Queen has two horses – Elector, trained by Sir Michael Stoute, and Seniority, trained by William Haggas – racing in the prestigious five-day event.

Her first Royal Ascot victory was in the Royal Hunt Cup won by her horse Choir Boy in 1953, while her last was three years ago when Dartmouth triumphed in the Hardwicke Stakes – the monarch’s 23rd winner at the event.

Thoroughbreds are the Queen’s great passion, and she is probably never happier when working with John Warren, her bloodstock and racing adviser.

Royal Ascot, which was founded in 1711, is steeped in history and tradition.

Men in bowler hats and others in green velvet jackets are swanning around the historic premises, juxtaposing modern designs.

Kate Middleton and Zara Tindall were yesterday pictured roaring with laughter as they headed to the first day of the Royal Ascot.

It came one day after Kate Middleton and Prince William’s police convoy was involved in a horror crash – leaving an 83-year-old woman seriously injured.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were on their way to Windsor to attend the Order of the Garter service when a marked police motorbike in their convoy collided with Irene Mayor, 83, on Upper Richmond Road, Richmond, south-west London.

• Kate Middleton
• Prince Charles
• Prince Philip
• Prince William
• Queen Elizabeth II
• Royal Ascot

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