RACING fans will be able to start their Bank Holiday on Knavesmire as it was announced that York Racecourse is to hold an extra fixture.

A Friday festival of racing will be staged on May 28, as York steps in to help Catterick Racecourse, which is undertaking work on its stables.

The event, which chiefs at York are dubbing "Reward Friday" will mean an extra chance for the 280,000 who attended meetings in the city last year to enjoy the sights and sounds of Knavesmire.

William Derby, Chief Executive and Clerk of the Course at York said: "That Friday feeling creates a real buzz at York and we are hoping racegoers will relax into their May Bank Holiday with us."

The racecourse is offering half price entrance to anyone who also books attendance at any other York raceday.

James Brennan, marketing manager, said: "That means County Stand admission will cost patrons £10.50 and Grandstand and Paddock entrance £5.50, when booked in advance.

"People attending our established May Festival (May 11, 12 and 13) will be able to secure half price entry to the new fixture by applying during that event."

Guests of Go Racing in Yorkshire season ticket holders will also be able to take advantage of the half price offer.

Catterick is to transfer five of its fixtures. The meeting on April 21 moves to Redcar, May 4 goes to Musselburgh, May 22 to Ayr, May 28 to York and June 4 to Thirsk.

"Transferring these five Flat meetings to alternative venues creates a very useful window in which Catterick can make rapid progress with its stable yard redevelopment," said James Sanderson of the course's managers, International Racecourse Management.

"We are demolishing the existing stable yard at Catterick and creating a brand new facility at a cost of some £600,000."

Catterick's opening Flat fixture will be on Wednesday, March 31. Racing will resume there on Wednesday, June 30.

Updated: 10:32 Wednesday, March 17, 2004