CYCLISTS will now be able to get closer to Royal Ascot - after the council agreed to install bike racks near the course.

Last month, we reported that bikes were being banned from the racecourse for security reasons.

A council spokesman said they presented a "potential risk" and would not be allowed anywhere on the grounds or around the course.

The move sparked criticism from the cycling lobby group CTC, and other cyclists around the city.

But now the council is to provide racks near the football changing rooms on little Knavesmire - just off the cycle route.

It will mean cyclists will be able to park their bikes and walk to the course, just yards away.

The council said it had made the move after consultation with the racecourse and police.

Paul Hepworth, CTC York and North Yorkshire spokesman, said the decision to install racks was "absolutely superb".

He said: "I'm very pleased about it. I hope one or two people who decide to put on their hats and tails will be prepared to pedal.

"We're very pleased that the council has listened not only to the cycle lobby but to the wider public.

"We simply wanted to contribute to Ascot's traffic management."

Bill Woolley, the council's acting director of environment and development, said: "We're pleased that by working in partnership with our colleagues at the two racecourses and the police, provision for residents and visitors wanting to cycle in the area during the royal meeting will be greatly enhanced.

"As during normal York race meetings, cycles will not be allowed in the racecourse enclosures but the new cycle racks should provide a practical alternative.

"We know that, historically, very few people choose to cycle to York racecourse, but we recognise that a small number of people may want to leave their bicycles in the area and walk to the course.

He said cycle routes around the course would operate as normal during Royal Ascot week, with the exception of the Green Lane section of the Selby to York route.

This section of the route was to have been closed all day because of security issues, but it will now only be closed during each race and between 1.30pm and 2.15pm during Royal Ascot week.

Updated: 10:22 Thursday, April 07, 2005