STYLISH Ellis Allison capped a great evening at Redcar races by winning the Best Dressed Gent competition at the weekend.

Ellis, 20, of Stockton, bought his natty flat cap a year ago to mark a visit to St James’s Palace to receive the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, which was earned while he was an Army cadet.

And he brought it back out of the wardrobe for the fashion stakes at Redcar’s popular Ladies’ and Gents’ evening meeting, wearing it with a blue tweed three-piece suit to snatch victory.

Jamie Clarke and Victor Brudenell, both of Middlesbrough, were second and third respectively.

Ellis said: “I’m shocked to have won to be honest but chuffed to bits because it’s my first time at a race meeting.”

He won a men’s suit, shirt and tie from Bakers Tailoring, and a Hugo Boss pen from Market Cross Jewellers.

The Best Dressed Lady was Stacey Simpson, of Redcar, who looked stunning in a yellow and blue outfit and matching hat.

“I normally buy my hats but this time I thought I’d have a go at making my own and it seems to have paid off,” said mum-of-two Stacey, who was pulling off a Redcar double after winning another fashion contest at Redcar on Ladies’ Day in June.

This time, she won a bespoke fascinator from Chic Hats, a necklace from Market Cross Jewellers, and a gift bag from Orange Kerr Hair and Beauty. Elizabeth Williams and Jane Barwick, both of Redcar, were second and third.

The Best Dressed Couple title went to Sarah Dunbar and her partner Darren Fixter, of Middlesbrough.

The night out at Redcar was a birthday treat for beautician Sarah and, having found a striking red dress, she persuaded Darren to join her in the competition.

Darren, a self-employed courier, delivered a touch of class, complementing his girlfriend with red braces and a red bow tie.

“We’re thrilled to have won. I think I went a bit red when the result was announced but it’s been a fantastic evening out,” said Sarah.

Colin Howey, of Chester-le-Street and Pamela Collier, of Redcar, were runners-up, and Colin and Anya Allison were third.

Darren and Sarah won Hugo Boss watches from Market Cross Jewellers and a gift bag from Orange Kerr Hair and Beauty.