HUNDREDS of thousands of racegoers are expected to attend Royal Ascot this week, which Thames Valley Police has been policing for more than 20 years.

The policing operation to ensure the safety and security of everyone attending is in collaboration with a number of partners, including Ascot Racecourse Limited, the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead and colleagues from other police forces and emergency services.

Royal Ascot has a record of low levels of crime and anti-social behaviour for an event of its size and duration and police say that the well-planned, extensive partnership operation will ensure this year is no different and racegoers can enjoy the event.

Tactical Commander for the policing operation, chief superintendent Gavin Wong, said: "The public should be reassured and not alarmed by the security measures in place.

"A broad range of visible security measures are in place as well as many security measures that you can't see to ensure your day at the races is safe and secure as well as enjoyable.

"Residents, local business and visitors to the town can expect to see police officers, both armed and unarmed, search dogs, the mounted section, the roads policing unit and the National Police Air Service throughout the week.

"On the day you may be stopped by roads policing officers.

"If travelling by train, British Transport Police will be patrolling stations and carriages.

"Once you arrive at Ascot Racecourse, there will be searches taking place as you arrive.

"These are all part of our measures to keep you safe.

"I would like to encourage racegoers, local residents and business owners to work with us in being our extra eyes and ears on the ground.

"If you see something that doesn't look right, let us know and we will look into your concerns fully.

"Members of the public who own drones should be aware that a restriction of flying zone will be in place in the vicinity of Royal Ascot and this will be monitored and enforced throughout the week.

"This Restriction of Flying Regulation is a routine measure for a large scale event such as this and is part of the broad range of security measures that are in place to deliver a safe and secure week for everyone.

"On a practical note, as traffic regulations will be in place in Ascot and around the racecourse and public transport will be busy, please ensure you allow enough time to get to the races.

"Think about the number of items you are bringing to the event and clear out your bags and pockets in advance to assist with searches and ensure you are through security checks in time for the first race.

"During your day, keep your belongings with you and if you feel something looks out of place then please let us know.

"Finally, I would like to reassure those local to Ascot that the neighbourhood policing team are a key part in this policing operation and, working alongside others, will ensure that local priorities are not overlooked in the build-up, during and after the event.

"Our response to incidents and day to day policing will not be compromised by the policing of Royal Ascot."