TOP-LEVEL talks are taking place to ensure the maximum number of racing fans can enjoy the Royal Ascot experience in York.
Bosses from Ascot and York racecourses and senior City of York Council officers are working to agree on a safe capacity figure.
Royal Ascot's average attendance is about 60,000 a day, with 80,000 turning up for Ladies Day.
A major meeting at York Racecourse generally attracts more than 30,000 racegoers, with the course's overall average crowd about 18,000.
York chief executive William Derby has previously hinted Ascot crowds in York could be about 40,000.
He said today: "Work is ongoing. Everyone is concerned that it should be a safe and comfortable environment to accommodate the unique event that will be Royal Ascot in York."
Work to extend the York course to accommodate Royal Ascot is due to start next month. The track is being extended to two-and-a-half miles to allow for the meeting's longer races.
Updated: 11:00 Wednesday, February 18, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article