THOUSANDS of people turned out to enjoy Ladies Day at York Racecourse as part of the 2017 Dante Festival.

In a complete contrast to the heavy rain endured by racegoers on Wednesday, the sun came out for yesterday’s event, which was attended by around 13,000 people.

James Brennan, director of communications for York Racecourse, said: “It had a different feel about the place today, people really able to kick back in the sunshine. It’s been a smashing atmosphere, there was really some heat in the sun at points. It really felt like the racecourse came back to life after the rain on Wednesday.

“Attendance was about the same as last year, perhaps slightly up. That’s a good day because people get a bit hunkered down by rain and might have decided against the day out. We’re hoping people can do an honest mornings’ work and still be here for the first race on Friday at 2.20pm.”