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Going, going, gone! Blustery winds take off with Helen Mirren's hat at Ascot

Last updated at 01:35am on 20.06.08

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Strong winds left Helen Mirren struggling to hold onto her hat today as she prepared to present the prize at Royal Ascot's Ladies Day.

The Oscar-winning actress was caught off guard when a strong gust swept through the racecourse, collecting her elegant sheer accessory on its way.

Of course the 62-year-old handled the wardrobe malfunction with her trademark aplomb, laughing off the moment before planting it firmly back on her head.

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Hats off: Helen Mirren was caught off guard by a gust of wind at Ascot today

Helen, who played the title role in The Queen, was in good company at the event, with the real life royal also in attendance.

Her Majesty's hat caused something of a stir too, for altogether different reasons.

A spokeswoman from William Hill said it had closed its books after large bets on The Queen turning up wearing a fascinator.

However, she arrived at the course in a pale blue ensemble by designer Stewart Parvin and a hat in the same colour, designed by New Zealand milliner Philip Somerville.