IT was hats in the air for Venetia Wrigley as she became the first across the finishing line in the Macmillan Charity Race at York Racecourse – but all the riders were winners for charity on a day which raised a record £340,000 to help cancer victims.

She romped to victory on champion thoroughbred Extraterrestrial at the end of the Macmillan Charity Raceday which brought nearly 28,000 visitors to Knavesmire on Saturday Venetia is the wife of Nicholas Wrigley, of York Race Committee, which oversees the operation of the racecourse, and is part-owner of four horses at Musley Bank, where she has been training since February in the hope of a place on the big day.

Knavesmire has been hosting the raceday since 1971 and the event has raised more than £5.5 million for cancer related charities in York, one of which is Macmillan Cancer Support. It is Macmillan’s single biggest fund-raising event.

The Macmillan Charity Race is in its second year and is a chance for 12 supporters to compete in a nine furlong race around Knavesmire at the end of the afternoon. This year teh race itself raised £65,000.

James Brennan, head of marketing, said: “While Venetia was first past the post they are all very much winners for what they have done for charity.

“The joy of it was the crowd stayed to cheer them on. Venetia was a clear winner, but it was a very competitive race with some strong runs from the other riders.”

Venetia, of Ganton Hall, said: “I have finally got myself a justgiving account for the charity race so if anyone feels like contributing it would be hugely appreciated. It is such a worthwhile cause and one very close to both Nicholas’ and my heart.”

All the proceeds go to providing practical, medical and financial support for people affected by cancer and some of them were VIP guests for the day kitted out in outfits and makeovers provided by a number of York companies and shops, coordinated by She Loves York.

Donations can still be made go to justgiving.com/Venetia-Wrigley