A TOP prize for the elegance of her headwear literally came out of the blue for Daphne Corbin.

Daphne's blue 1947 New Look platter hat, by Christian Dior, so captivated the judges at Ripon Races she ended up being awarded the Best Hat accolade.

But it had all happened without her even realising she and her hat had been entered into the competition on Ladies Day.

She had visited the enclosure where the competition was taking place – also wearing an elegant 1940s-style navy blue pencil suit – just to spectate, but ended up being given a ticket.

Daphne said: "I said to my friend what's this number for?

"She said, you're in the final. I said I didn't even know I was in the competition!

"So, with my knees knocking all the while I took my place in the line-up, feeling very conscious of my lack of frills and being the 'aged elegance' amongst a bevy of young beauties."

On learning she had won, Daphne, added: "I was totally astonished.

"Hurrah for the elegant oldies."

And to top it all, Judge Jenny Roberts told Daphne the New Look hat was the most elegant she had seen and the way Daphne wore and carried it was "divine".

She said: "It's the ultimate compliment. I couldn't be more delighted – now I have got over the shock."

Daphne headed home with a bouquet of flowers, a bottle of bubbly and a millinery workshop with Jenny Roberts, of Harrogate, for herself and three mates.

Daphne, who restores classic and heritage hats, which date from 1890 to 1947, at her home in Halton Gill, Littondale, Skipton, is a member of the Elegant Ladies of Littondale, who present vintage fashion shows.

Contact Daphne via daphne.corbin@tinternet.com for further information.