People are not being discouraged from dressing smart if they want to - but the club says racegoers can now wear what makes them "most comfortable and confident".

Fans usually choose to dress up for the UK's big racing events, but it's a misconception that formal dress must always be worn - even at The Grand National and Cheltenham Festival.

Jockey Club boss Nevin Truesdale said it was getting rid of "ambiguity or uncertainty" to "let people know that whatever they feel comfortable wearing they'll be welcome to join us on a raceday".

Fancy dress, offensive clothing or replica sport kits will still not be allowed however, and formalwear remains mandatory in the Queen's stand at Epsom on Derby Day.

The club runs 15 racecourses including Aintree, Exeter, Cheltenham, Epsom Downs, Sandown Park and Newmarket.

The change comes after feedback from fans and a review of the rules.

Mr Truesdale said the Jockey Club "places a great emphasis on diversity and inclusion and always seeks to reflect modern trends"

"It has been clear to us that enforcing a dress code seems rather outdated in the 21st Century in the eyes of many of our racegoers," he added.