In pictures: Paul Gascoigne joins thousands for family race day

Fireman Sam was the guest of honour as thousands enjoyed a family fun day in glorious sunshine at the Royal Windsor Racecourse yesterday.

The Maidenhead Road course played host to a Bank Holiday programme packed with eight flat races and a host of activities for everyone to enjoy.

Children were treated to funfair rides, face painting and a tag rugby zone, while the Royal Berkshire Fire and Service were joined by Fireman Sam to meet with youngsters and let them try on the uniform.

Older visitors enjoyed a punt on some top quality racing, while former England midfielder Paul Gascoigne paid a visit to celebrate his 46th birthday.

Beth Greener, marketing and PR executive at the racecourse, estimated about 7,000 people stopped by to enjoy the fun on the day.

She added: "We've had beautiful weather and it's really turned into a proper family event. We've had a number of birthday parties and celebrations and even had a wedding."

More family fun days are planned over the summer.