IT is almost beyond belief that York is content to stand in line to await the benefit of a possible handout Royal Ascot in 2005.

Why has the Queen not been invited to open the new Ebor stand which will complement the two existing prestigious stands, the Knavesmire and Melrose?

You reported that: "Ascot managers are said to favour York because it is considered an attractive course and is in a city packed with hotels."

Surely, more than a hint of envy from "way down south".

Tourism boss Gillian Cruddas, shopkeepers, restaurant/tea shop owners and hotel managers would be among many to welcome such an event on a yearly basis and not as a one-off.

So where is the fighting initiative from City of York and York Racecourse which would give a marvellous kick- start to our year of tourism 2003 and beyond?

They should act now for Royal York 2003.

Allan Kendall,

Hutton Close,

Nether Poppleton,

York.

Updated: 10:46 Tuesday, April 01, 2003