TURN on the racing on the telly, sit back and imagine. Imagine that all the pageantry, finery and, let's face it, snobbery of Royal Ascot were transposed to York.

Imagine an aristocratic filly ordering a Pimms at the Winning Post on Bishopthorpe Road. Imagine hats the size of roundabouts. Imagine the Queen in her royal carriage studying Tom O'Ryan in the Evening Press for tomorrow's form as she bumped along Knavesmire.

That is why we are keen on the idea of York taking over Royal Ascot in 2005. It would be great fun.

Today we are delighted to report that the city council has entered the spirit and is backing the bid. Champers all round!

Updated: 10:44 Tuesday, June 17, 2003