The 50 members of Britannia Working Men's Club came first out of more than 500 entries from all over the country to win a free day at the races.

Club president Frank Beach entered the Britannia for the contest after a coach trip to York races last year - and he could not believe it when he heard the club had won.

"I had to ask the chap who told me to repeat it to make sure I had heard him right," said Mr Beach. "I was absolutely over the moon."

The club members and their wives will travel to Epsom as guests of the Racing Information Bureau which organised the competition. Once there, they will be allowed entry to the grandstand and paddock, and will be treated to a champagne lunch at the famous racecourse.

The group will also be able to test their skills as punters with a free £50 bet. Any winnings will be donated to club funds. After the races the group will celebrate its special day out with a party.