ONE royal York praised another royal York yesterday.

Prince Andrew gave a resounding endorsement of Royal Ascot at York, describing it as "one of the most outstanding race meetings I have ever attended".

That praise was a thoroughly deserved accolade for everyone who has worked so hard to deliver an emphatic Ascot triumph. And it was part of a day which gave us many reasons to feel proud of York.

Our Community Pride award winners, who met the Duke at a races reception, were tremendous ambassadors for a part of the city not otherwise showcased at Royal Ascot.

Their outstanding efforts clearly made an impression on Prince Andrew who thanked everyone individually for their contribution to community life, and the Evening Press for honouring previously unsung heroes.

When the thrill of Ascot is a happy memory, our winners will still be investing their time and commitment to improving the lives of others.

They were at York Racecourse on a historic day. The attendance, 50,510, was the biggest for a meeting since the last time York hosted another track's meeting, the 1945 St Leger.

Yorkshire women did us proud in outfits as colourful and stylish as anything seen on Berkshire Ladies' Days; the council and police did us proud by overseeing a near trouble-free event; and the sun made its belated arrival in time for the Gold Cup.

A winning day all round.

Updated: 11:13 Friday, June 17, 2005