Preparations underway for Ladies' Night at the races

Last year's ladies' night. Credit: Carlisle Racecourse

Ladies' Night is taking place at Carlisle Racecourse this evening.

There will be seven races, and the first will begin at 5:45pm, with the last happening at 8:45pm.

All 76 horses will be ridden by women, and the organisers say it's the only meeting in the world exclusively for female jockeys.

Hayley Turner, the UK's top female jockey, will compete in four races - three of them against rising star Samantha Bell, who has 17 winners this season.

Hackthorpe jockey Emma Sayer is also racing. With three wins, she's Cumbria's most successful jockey so far this season.

Emma Sayer competing at the Cheltenham Festival. Credit: Stephen Pond/EMPICS Sport

The gates will open at 2:45pm, and there will be fashion competitions throughout the afternoon.

Thousands of pounds worth of prizes will be offered for the Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Gent, and Best Hat.

Last year's Ladies' Night. Credit: Carlisle Racecourse

Following the races, there will be a concert by The White Keys.