IT WAS the place where Grand National hero Red Rum was bought.

Now the prestigious stable, which sells some of the nation's finest racecourses, could leave its home behind and move to York.

The historic Doncaster Bloodstock Sales (DBS) has confirmed its switch to the city is still on the cards, as negotiations with South Yorkshire council chiefs have hit the buffers.

The Evening Press revealed last September how the business, which sells hundreds of thoroughbreds each year, was targeting the ill-fated Terry's factory and declared York "at the top of the list" if it had to leave the Doncaster area.

Uncertainty about its future arose because of doubts about the planning application to revamp Doncaster Racecourse - a situation which has since seen York Racecourse awarded this year's St Leger classic race.

But even though permission was granted for that application, which includes blueprints for a new 500-stable bloodstock centre, DBS managing director Henry Beeby said talks had stalled with Doncaster Council over the issuing of new leases.

He told the Evening Press the company, which brings £35 million a year into Doncaster's economy, would leave the town if negotiations were not concluded by the end of next month. Mr Beeby revealed an "attractive offer" from York was on the table, and confirmed the organisation had met York Racecourse chief William Derby, when certain "commitments were made to each other".

The bloodstock sales have been on their present site since 1962. Twelve Grand National winners have been bought and sold there.

"York is still very much a possibility," Mr Beeby said. "We still hope to conclude things with Doncaster Council and it's a fervent hope that we will do so, but we are coming to the stage where we have got to make a decision soon.

"If it doesn't come to that, we will actively pursue all other options, at which York is very high on the list.

"We have had a number of meetings with William Derby and we have made one or two offers and commitments to each other.

"Negotiations (with Doncaster) are going on a bit too long. We feel we have gone round and about in circles.

"We are hoping to stay in Doncaster but we are looking at other options."

Mr Beeby maintained the Terry's site, with its proximity to the racecourse, was still an ideal York site and was being considered.

James Brennan, York Racecourse marketing manager, said: "From our point of view, a unique centre of excellence for horse racing would be good news. In principle, it would be great."

Updated: 09:44 Thursday, February 16, 2006