Now we know where the thong bandits got their lingerie

They borrowed it from women who left theirs at home before going to the races.

Britain’s poshest horse racing event of the year, Royal Ascot, requires men to wear morning dress and women to wear dresses and hats. But “after witnessing one too many sartorial disasters,” Ascot has had to issue a blunt new dress code explaining what that means.

The new Royal Ascot code warns ladies against the perils of fake tans, flashy jewellery, faulty footwear - and, most importantly, points out the hazards of lacking in the lingerie department.

On this point, it doesn’t mince words, saying bluntly: ‘Knickers: A definite yes - but not on show, please, ladies!’

While it may seem rather obvious to suggest the wearing of undergarments for such a prestigious event - the Queen and other senior members of the Royal Family attend each day - the organisers privately admit that nowadays they can take nothing for granted.

The thoroughbreds, of course, always look impeccable.