YORK'S economy gains from its diversity, so when there is bad news in one sector of industry good news arises elsewhere.

These two faces are perfectly shown by Terry's, whose sad demise illustrates the decline of traditional industry, with long-established work going abroad in the name of saving corporate money.

Yet now the Terry's site could find new life in a way that perfectly suits its position next to Knavesmire.

The prestigious racing business Doncaster Bloodstock Sales has confirmed it would consider moving to York if it had to leave its home at Doncaster Racecourse, which is planning a £30 million redevelopment.

While there remain a number of big "ifs" about any relocation to York, this is certainly an exciting and tantalising possibility.

DBS is a £35 million operation which sells hundreds of thoroughbreds every year, and it says the former chocolate factory would be "at the top of its list" if it had to quit Doncaster.

Such a move would further strengthen York's rising role as a centre of horseracing excellence. After the great success of Royal Ascot at York, any such move would be a real boost to York. The city has never had a higher racing profile and anything which strengthens that has to be welcomed.

In the longer term, the city could even hope to copy the role of Newmarket, racing's HQ.

DBS's plans for Doncaster feature bars and restaurants, something which would also work well on the Terry's site. This would be especially so if the river taxi used during Royal Ascot were to be revived, taking punters from the heart of York to a fantastic new racing centre.

Here's hoping.

Updated: 11:04 Friday, September 09, 2005