New stand is favourite for great views

The two pictures, taken from the new £12 million Ebor stand, show what race-goers can expect when it opens to the public in May.

The first, a view of the finishing straight overlooking the winning post, was taken from the site of the fourth-floor Ebor restaurant during a race day.

With floor-to-ceiling windows, a grandstand balcony and a terrace which will allow County Stand badge holders to view the parade ring, the restaurant is the centrepiece of York Racecourse's hugely impressive new five-floor stand.

The second picture, taken from the rear of the stand, shows the magical view overlooking the city and York Minster from the summit of the structure.

Marketing manager James Brennan said the development was running to schedule and should be unveiled in time for the May Festival.

He hopes the "wow" factor and the breathtaking 360-degree views of racing will prove a real winner.

"The stand has been designed to improve the experience of race going," said Mr Brennan. "We hope that people will come here and love it and want to come again. The Ebor Stand clearly is a statement building.

"There is floor-to-ceiling glass and we have taken advantage of 21st century design techniques that weren't available when the old 1965 stand was built."

As well as the promise of fantastic views, Ebor patrons will benefit from new restaurants, up-to-date race facilities, a tunnel exit and superb luxury.

Mr Brennan said some facilities which "starred" last year when temporary pavilions were in place, such as the lawn canopies, would remain. But he said the pre-parade ring would be re-established.

Mr Brennan said the excitement for the opening meeting was increasing as building work began to reach its climax.

He said: "The first day of the season is always a fantastic day. The opening of the Ebor Stand will give us added impetus. We are very excited and proud, but the horses will still be the heroes."

Updated: 09:12 Friday, March 07, 2003