We at Londonist are firm believers in the old proverbs, and particularly that sage advice to "never look a gift horse in the mouth", which is why, dear readers, we are offering you the chance to win a right royal time at the world-famous Ascot races even though, technically speaking, the venue lies about six and a half miles out of our remit.

Up for grabs for each of three lucky winners are a pair of VIP tickets for the meeting on Saturday 12th July, generously provided by Plymouth Gin to celebrate their inaugural sponsorship of the Summer Mile to be run that afternoon. The tickets include admission, transport and the full hospitality works featuring a champagne reception, a three-course lunch and free cocktails for the day. There will also be the chance to go on a 'behind the scenes' tour of the weighing room and other key areas of the Ascot complex in advance of the day's racing as well as the opportunity of meeting some of the jockeys who will be competing.

To be in with a chance of winning one of the three pairs of tickets you must enter your contact details and answer the following question correctly before the closing date of Tuesday, July 8th, 2008 on the form below:

At what time (BST) is the Plymouth Gin Summer Mile 2008 at Ascot due to start?

1: 2:15pm
2. 2:55pm
3. 3:25pm

[Following the links on this page will help if you're stuck.]

As with the terms and conditions for all our competitions (full details here), to enter you must be 18 years of age or older. The prize is not transferable and no cash alternative is available though Plymouth Gin may, at its discretion, substitute this prize for an alternative prize of similar value.

Picture of the parade ring at Ascot racecourse via Wolfiewolf's Flickr stream.