MALTON’S racing community threw open their doors at the annual open day on Sunday giving a behind-the-scenes glimpse of some of the country’s leading racing yards.

More than 20 trainers took part in the event with crowds of families and racing fans enjoying the activities and demonstrations in the late summer sunshine.

The open day restarted in 2012 after running regularly 10 years ago, and has since grown in popularity.

In the morning the racing yards were the centre of attention while later in the day the focus switched to the Milton Rooms and Market Place in Malton.

Horse whisperer Gary Witheford’s popular natural horsemanship demonstration took place at Tim Etherington’s Wold House Stables, while Brian Ellison opened both Highfield and Spring Cottage yards with water walker demonstrations.

Racing hero Mister McGoldrick, performed a retrained racehorse display hosted by New Beginnings Racehorse Rehoming Centre at Tim Fitzgerald’s Norton Grange Stables throughout the morning where there was also a chance to have a go on an equisisor.

Pam Hollingworth, from the charity, said it was a good opportunity to raise their profile.

"We are delighted to be involved in the open stables event," she added.

"People don't always think about what happens to racehorses when they retire and we are here to show how they can move on from racing."

Horseracing memorabilia from the National Horseracing Museum and Great British Racing’s Kids Love The Races Roadshow was on display in the Milton Rooms along with exhibitions by the Injured Jockeys’ Fund and Racing Welfare.

A celebrity quiz including jockey Barry McHugh trainer, Brian Ellison and Jack Berry MBE also took place.

Funds raised from the open day will benefit four charities - Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Malton Hospital, Jack Berry House and Racing Welfare.

Trainer Tim Fitzgerald, who is also chairman of Malton Racing Association, said the day had benefited from change of date - a week later than previous years.

"I think it has been easier from a stables point of view because we had held the event straight after the York meeting which is always a busy week for local trainers," he added.

"This year we have had more time to get ready which has been easier."

Tim said there had been a lot of positive feedback from visitors and trainers.

"There seems to have been more people around than last year, possibly helped by the good weather," he added.

"I am delighted everyone has enjoyed themselves as well as raising money for four very worthy charities."