Preparations are in full swing for Derby Day with the world's greatest flat race scheduled to start half an hour later than usual this year.

With less than two weeks to go before crowds and royalty descend on Epsom Downs, punters are busy brushing up on racing tips and picking out the perfect hat or fascinator for the races.

The iconic Derby and the popular Oaks race on Ladies' Day have both been moved back to 4.30pm this year - a move welcomed by broadcaster Channel 4.

Renowned chefs Michel Roux Jr and Albert Roux will serve up food on the Prince’s Lawn while parents and children can soak up the atmosphere from the relatively new family enclosure on the hill.

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Model Vogue Williams, who won reality TV show Bear Grylls: Mission Survive in 2015, is delighted to have been invited as a guest judge of the best dressed lady competition on Ladies' Day.

Williams says: "Epsom Downs Racecourse has an extensive history and is known for having an electric atmosphere which I am very excited to have the chance to experience."

Before building work started earlier this month, the racecourse's general manager Simon Durrant said they felt like "coiled springs" and were waiting with great anticipation.

Mr Durrant said: "We have countdown on our micro-site and the grandstand. It’s the greatest flat race in the world, we genuinely know and believe that."

Your Local Guardian: Epsom Derby 2014

For tips, tickets and full information on the Derby visits its online micro-site at www.epsomderby.co.uk Epsom Downs Racecourse, Epsom Downs; Ladies Day; Friday, June 5; Investec Derby Day, Saturday, June 6; gates open at 11am; call 0844 579 3004 for tickets