RACEGOERS can beat the traffic and travel to the racecourse in style, if they take to the river during Royal Ascot at York.

York Incoming has teamed up with Waterline Cruises to launch Ascotboat - a waterbus running from Skeldergate to the racecourse area every day during the five-day racing festival.

Operating in both directions, the service is the brainchild of York Incoming boss Dave Martin. Boats will begin at 9.30am from the racecourse jetty to bring "early birds" into the city centre.

Boats will be leaving approximately every 15 minutes through the day bringing people to and from the racecourse.

The last boat will leave the racecourse after the meeting has finished at 8pm. The racecourse jetty is located very closed to the main coach car park. There are two categories of ticket - pre-booked priority and walk-on. Pre-booked tickets are only being sold on a return basis so numbers can be controlled during busy periods.

Passengers who have pre-booked will be given priority when boarding. Only when these passengers have been accommodated will anyone else be able to walk-on.

Availability is limited and passengers who are banking on a boat to get them to York Racecourse have been urged to pre-book to ensure their place.

Pre-booked tickets are priced at £9 return. Walk-on tickets are priced at £5 for a single journey. York Incoming has warned that during peak times it is unlikely that walk-on space will be available. Day return tickets will not be available to buy on the day. Tickets are also valid for the day of travel only.

For more information, phone 01904 637799.

Updated: 11:02 Tuesday, June 14, 2005