ROYAL ASCOT came early for a number of dapper York race fans.

The eagerly-awaited Royal festival is not coming to the city until next summer.

But punters dusted down top hats, tails and dazzling dresses to lead the way in the fashion stakes at the final day of the May Meeting yesterday.

York's racing season got off to a "flier" as bumper crowds flocked to the popular curtain-raiser.

Officials today confirmed that more than 41,500 punters swarmed to Knavesmire during the three-day meeting - a three per cent rise on the same time last year.

York Racecourse marketing manager James Brennan told the Evening Press: "We're up and running and off to a flier."

He said: "We've had a fantastic start to the season. Everyone's hard work over the winter has really paid off."

Racegoers were treated to a feast of action, with local trainers triumphing and many pundits pointing to winning runs from potential Oaks, Derby and Ascot Gold Cup winners.

As usual, champagne-supping celebrities were out in force. Star names soaking up the unique York atmosphere included former Leeds United boss and current Aston Villa manager David O'Leary, Coventry City manager Peter Reid, cricketing legend Dickie Bird and an array of Emmerdale stars.

Officials are now preparing for the next fixture, Reward Friday, on May 28, when punters who attended this week's meeting can gain half-price entry on advance bookings. To get the discount they need a ticket or stub from any of the May meeting days.

The May 28 fixture has been switched from Catterick, where refurbishment work is taking place.

Meanwhile, police today reported a trouble-free start to the racing season. A York Police spokesman said the three days passed without major incident.

Updated: 10:43 Friday, May 14, 2004