Royal Ascot is attempting to "bring a touch of Glastonbury to Her Majesty's favourite face meeting," with a new enclosure being launched in June "using live music to attract a younger audience," according to Valentine Low of the LONDON TIMES. The Village, which will "feature DJs playing music long after the Queen has gone home, is the first new enclosure at the Berkshire course since the Five Shilling Stand opened in 1908." The plans are described as a "pop-up summer scene." Ascot Commercial Dir Juliet Slot said, "It will be our take on a festival feel, but done the Ascot way." While the Village Enclosure will "not be as formal as the top hat and tails of the Royal Enclosure, it will have a dress code." Ladies "must wear a hat or fascinator, and strappy dresses and bare midriffs are banned." Gentlemen "must wear a suit with shirt and tie" (LONDON TIMES, 3/2). The BBC reported The Village Enclosure "will provide a range of attractions, including eateries, bars, social areas and DJs." Ascot Racing & Communications Dir Nick Smith said, "Best racing, best party, is the aspiration." Organizers expect there to be a "natural synergy" toward the younger demographic, although they want "repeat visitors and happy visitors" rather than large numbers (BBC, 3/2).
