NOT everyone in York is out to make a killing from next year's Royal Ascot meeting at Knavesmire.

York Youth Hotel is raising its prices for the race meeting - but to a very reasonable £50 a night.

The Queen is known to be careful with her money. So perhaps she may consider staying at the Bishophill hotel.

It would be a magnificent sight: Her Majesty and Prince Philip conducting a royal walkabout along Micklegate, pausing only to put any floral gifts in their backpacks.

One question: is there royal protocol about who gets the top bunk?

Updated: 11:29 Monday, September 13, 2004