Ladies Day returns to Cheltenham festival promising ‘glamour and glory’

Jockey Club says aim is to get more women watching racing and revival is not a response to ‘woke’ jibes

Jade Holland Cooper arriving for day 1 of the Cheltenham Races. Picture ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy

First and foremost, it is a huge sporting event, billed by its fans as the Olympics of jump racing – but it can also act as a social barometer, giving clues as to the state and mood of the nation.

This year’s Cheltenham festival, which began on Tuesday, feels a little like a step back in time with the return of “Ladies Day” after a five-year hiatus and a reduction in the price of a pint.