Superintendent David Farrelly said his officers are prepared for the extra pressures of the Royal Ascot festival in York.

The British Transport Police regional commander said plans were in place to deal with tens of thousands of racegoers who were expected to use the public transport system.

He said barriers would be used to control the queues expected at York Station and extra buses, officers and rail staff would work to disperse the crowds.

He said: "There will also be places where people can come and line up for extra buses down to the course. A lot depends on the weather.

"The event is licensed for up to 60,000 people, which is similar to the Ebor festival. We do expect there to be a rush of people at about 8.30pm."

Updated: 10:50 Monday, March 14, 2005