TODAY'S racing will still go ahead in York, despite the bombings in London, Knavesmire bosses have confirmed.

York Racecourse spokesman James Brennan said: "At this stage we are racing - because that's the right thing to do.

"This has been an outrage for the individuals involved, and it's a huge personal tragedy. But we think we should carry on.

"While for racegoers we hope it's an enjoyable and entertaining afternoon, for the professionals - it's a livelihood.

"Offices and other workplaces aren't closing - for some people, the races are a workplace."

He said that a decision would be made today as to whether there would be an appropriate way to mark yesterday's atrocity - such as a minute's silence.

Meanwhile, thousands of racegoers heading for Knavesmire will be helped by key elements of the traffic plan that was put in place for Royal Ascot.

The scheme in place today and tomorrow is not a carbon copy of that used at Ascot, but is expected to make life easier for racegoers and residents. It includes a signposted route along Sim Balk Lane and a one-way system along Campleshon Road and Knavesmire Road which was starting earlier than for Ascot.

Mr Brennan, head of marketing and sponsorship at York Racecourse, said: "By and large the traffic plan at Royal Ascot was successful, although an issue like traffic will be judged by individuals' experience. We've had lots of positive comments about it, to the credit of the council.

"We've kept some of the elements, but this weekend will be a different kind of meeting with a different profile of race goers. For example, not everybody will have an advanced car parking space this time, whereas everybody did for Ascot.

"There will be a lot more people who are familiar with coming to York and might have their own routes rather than following the signposts."

But the Ascot changes that saw South Bank opening on a gate system are not being used this time.

Tomorrow's John Smith's Cup Day is traditionally the busiest day for York Racecourse, drawing the biggest crowds of the year.

Mr Brennan said there would be some "spine tingling" moments at the meeting.

He said: "It has a different feel to it than Ascot, with an informal atmosphere that we look forward to.

"There is a buzz around here and we are putting the York Races signs up where the Royal Ascot at York signs were last month."

Updated: 10:32 Friday, July 08, 2005