CUMBRIA is preparing for one of its parties of the year on Monday night.

Revellers are preparing for a night at the races as they take part in Carlisle Racecourse’s Ladies Night.

And Spice Girls star Melanie C will provide the post-meeting entertainment, DJing in the course’s paddock.

Thousands of women – along with some men – are expected to be dressed in their finest as the turn out for the summer showcase at the Durdar track.

Mel C has proven herself a popular figure on Cumbria’s music scene, having headlined the music element of Keswick Mountain Festival earlier this summer.

The Ladies Night meeting at Carlisle is not only a big social event – with bars and restaurants in the city centre also benefiting from people meeting up before heading to the races – but it has special sporting significant too. The meeting is the only one in the country to feature an all-female racecard of jockeys.

Carlisle Racecourse general manager Molly Dingwall said: “Our Ladies Night meeting is a brilliant and fun event when the ladies of Cumbria head to the racecourse in their finery to kick back and enjoy an evening at the races.

“Aside from the sparkling fashion, fizz, fine dining and brilliant atmosphere there is plenty of serious business on the track.”