ANOTHER bumper crowd is expected at Knavesmire when York racecourse stages its second Sunday meeting.

And once again the Evening Press will be on hand to make sure racing fans and families have a wonderful day out.

Last year 22,500 people attended the Evening Press-sponsored inaugural Sunday meeting, and it was so successful that there was no hesitation in agreeing to stage another meeting this season.

The meet, on September 2, has seven quality races - with a bonus race if, like last year, there is a mammoth entry.

The sport is the centrepiece, but much more is going on to make it fun for all the family.

The First Royal Dragoons will be put through their paces with lances and swords in a 30-minute horse-riding display. Racegoers can test their jockey skills on the Equicisor, a racehorse simulator in action in Tattersalls.

Real equine stars will include John Smith's popular drays William and Joe, Shire horses stabled at Linton-on-Ouse, Holly the Shetland pony, police horses from the East Yorkshire force and horses from the York and Ainsty Hunt. There will advice for punters new and old on how to pick a winner.

A Racing Explained panel will give the basics, while Graham Orange, of Go Racing in Yorkshire, will interview jockeys, stable staff, trainers and owners to provide more insight.

York City - also sponsored by the Evening Press - and Leeds Rhinos RL team members will hold a penalty shoot-out challenge, while City's infamous mascot Yorkie, York Wasps RL favourite Wobby and Leeds Rhinos' Ronnie look on.

There will be plenty of children's rides, a swing boat, face painting and other attractions, as well as a creche with fully qualified staff.

Minster FM Roadshow will be broadcasting the John Harding Show live from Tattersalls, and the York Racing Museum in County Stand will open for free.

What's On Race Day Guide

Equicisor - Tattersalls (all day)

Cavalry Display Team - on track at 12.45pm

Evening Press children's goody bags - while available

Minster FM Roadshow - Roberto Lawn, Tattersalls (11.30am onwards)

Museum Guide - Museum in Main Grandstand (all day)

Racing Explained - Parade Ring (1-1.30pm/between races)

Parade of the Horse - Track (between 2nd and 3rd races)

John Smith's dray - Course Enclosure (all day)

Penalty shoot-out - Course Enclosure

Children's Rides and Face Painting - Course Enclosure (all day)

Celebrity autographs - Weighing Room Lawn 2.45pm and 4.45pm

Punters Panel - Parade Ring 1.15pm

Updated: 10:37 Saturday, August 18, 2001