CHESTER has pipped York at the post. It has taken the title of most popular northern racecourse with an average daily attendance more than 400 up on Knavesmire.

Well done Chester. It is no longer one of the also rans.

But we respectfully suggest that it will take a lot more than a one-off performance to overtake York as the best racing has to offer.

Once the new Ebor Stand is in place, our racecourse will be even more impressive than ever.

Then it can take its usual place a few lengths ahead of the chasing pack.

Updated: 10:34 Monday, February 17, 2003