THE eyes of the world were on York again at the weekend. Not because of a troubled Prime Minister this time, but because of a classic race meet.

A year ago it was the Queen and Royal Ascot that brought racing's elite to this city.

This weekend, it was the St Leger - the world's oldest classic horse race, and a Yorkshire one to boot.

York has a glorious racing history of its own: but what a joy it is to see these classic events being staged here.

The racing was fantastic, the crowds in fine form, the city itself buzzing. Hotels were fully booked, and tourism chiefs estimate that this weekend alone could have netted at least £4 million for the city's economy.

The St Leger came to York because Doncaster Racecourse is undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment.

But what we have proved with the triumphs that have been York Ascot and the York St Leger is that this city and its racecourse have a racing tradition the equal of anyone. We've now done a unique double of racing classics.

Any odds on what it will be next year? Glorious Goodwood, perhaps? Or even the Derby?

One thing is for sure. York Racecourse would be up to the challenge if called upon.