Vivienne Westwood shows colours for Glorious

The silk designed by Vivienne Westwood for Magnolia Cup

A star-studded line-up of ladies is set to return for Glorious Goodwood next week, as high-profile women including Jodie Kidd take on the role of jockey for the celebrity charity race.

Prestigious fashion names including Bella Freud, Sadie Frost, Jasmine Guinness and Luella Bartley, and of course Ms Westwood, have created silks for the occasion to help raise funds for The Haven, a free support centre for those battling breast cancer, and Best Beginnings, a charity dedicated to ending child heath inequalities in the UK.

Vivienne Westwood said her design was inspired by ‘the Climate Revolution’: “The fact of man-made climate change is accepted by most people. Through every walk of life people are changing their values and their behaviour.

“This continues to build the revolution. The fight is no longer between the classes or between rich and poor but between the idiots and the eco-conscious.”

The Magnolia Cup takes place on Ladies Day on Thursday, August 1, and the riders will include jewellery designer Philippa Holland, Sunday Times writer Krissi Murison, BBC South’s weather broadcaster Alexis Green and a host of other names including Lucy Henman and Tricia Simonon.

“We are thrilled to be benefiting from this prestigious event. This fundraising opportunity is vital for the charity at such an important time in its history,” said the Haven’s CEO, Pamela Healy.

“The money raised will be go towards setting up a brand new Haven breast cancer support centre in Wessex which will bring so much relief and comfort to countless women in the region.”

Both charities will benefit not only from spectator donations on the day but proceeds from the glamorous annual Regency Gala Ball, hosted by Lord and Lady March at Goodwood House, on Wednesday.

Glorious Goodwood kicks off on Tuesday as thousands of racegoers flock to the Downs to participate in what is considered the pinnacle of the sporting and social calendars.

For tickets and hospitality visit www.goodwood.com or contact the ticket office on 01243 755055.