TOPPERS which have adorned the crowns of Britain's Royals could soon be seen atop the heads of York racegoers, as Ascot comes to town.

What's posh and what's not is about to become clear, as a leading London hatters and milliners packs up its top hats and heads for the city in time for what is arguably York's grandest social event.

Thousands of racing fans are expected to descend on the city as the 2005 Royal Meeting comes to York Racecourse, while Ascot undergoes its £185 million redevelopment.

Ascot organisers say visitors can expect "spectacular pageantry, stylish fashion, the finest hospitality and horseracing of the highest order" over the five-day meeting from Tuesday, June 14.

To help ensure York residents can hold their heads as high as regular Ascot-goers, Felicity Hats of York is staging a special event for invited guests at its Clarence Street premises.

On Thursday, James Lock, Hatters, of St James's, London, will be at the shop, shedding light on top hats, their history, how they are made and the famous people who have worn its "toppers".

Established in 1676, Locks is one of the world's oldest family-owned and family-run businesses. A quick flick through its ledgers reads like four centuries of "Who's Who" with high-profile names such as Prince Philip and Prince Charles, as well as Prince William and Prince Harry.

Also featured on the roll call of customers are Sir Winston Churchill, pictured in June 1945, Oscar Wilde, Beau Brummel, Admiral Lord Nelson, Sir Laurence Olivier, General de Gaulle, Jackie Onassis, Salvador Dali, Graham Greene and Frank Sinatra.

Anne Menzies, whose business, Felicity Hats of York, had already taken orders as early as last May, said: "All in all it should be a very interesting and amusing evening. All proceeds raised from the evening will go to the tsunami appeal."

Up to 50,000 people are expected to attend the races each day during Royal Ascot.

Meanwhile, Moss Bros is geeing up for Royal Ascot at York 2005 by announcing plans to open a new store in the city before the prestigious event.

The formal wear business Moss Bros Hire has produced a new line of elegant and luxurious men's lightweight morning wear to suit the occasion. Classic morning wear will also be available.

Updated: 11:24 Friday, February 25, 2005