THE doors of York Racecourse's splendid £20 million Ebor Stand opened for the first time today.

The Evening Press was shown round the landmark development, only weeks before it opens to the public for next month's May meeting.

The stand, funded partly through a £12 million loan, will provide a new dimension to racing for York's annual members and county stand racegoers.

Floor-to-ceiling glass provides tremendous views of both the racecourse and the surrounding York area.

William Derby, chief executive and clerk of the course, said: "We want to make the experience of racing at York as enjoyable as possible.

"This means offering clear views of the track and access to food, drink and toilets. We have delivered this in the Knavesmire Stand and now we are delighted they will be available in the Ebor Stand as well.

"Watching the stand take shape has been fascinating, and seeing it all but completed is exciting for everyone who works here.

"We can't wait to see it full, and are sure that many racegoers will want to be among the first to sample its top quality environment."

Updated: 11:04 Tuesday, April 29, 2003