FOLLOWING the letter from Mr K Holmes (March 31), please can I confirm the situation regarding the "Rails Enclosure" during Royal Ascot at York.

This area has been created especially to give local people, who may not be regular racegoers, the opportunity to enjoy this unique occasion without paying a "racing" rate.

Unlike other enclosures, visitors will be able to bring their own picnics, although there will be catering outlets, as well as betting facilities. The small charge is a contribution towards the costs of providing and stewarding the area.

City of York Council's traffic plan and the racecourse car parking plan is based on the capacity of the main enclosures, which is why there will be no car parking sold with Rails Enclosure tickets. Those coming to that enclosure will be asked to make use of local public transport and racecourse shuttles from the station, or to come by foot specifically because all parties are keen to work within the agreed traffic plan.

In the first few days of being on sale, there has already been significant interest in this area which complements the enthusiasm from Yorkshire sporting fans who had already booked their admission to one of the main areas.

Ascot and York racecourses, in conjunction with York council and other key bodies such as the Highways Agency, North Yorkshire Police and Yorkshire Forward, continue to plan for a world-famous event to be held in the city.

We do understand that the presence of an event of this scale will mean that it will be an unusual week and are grateful in advance for the patience and understanding of York residents.

We are looking forward to June and hope that the enjoyment, prestige and economic benefits that Royal Ascot will bring to the city offer a long-term benefit.

James Brennan,

Head of Marketing,

York Racecourse.

Updated: 11:28 Wednesday, April 06, 2005