YOU can take a horse to beer - but can you make him drink?

Two of North Yorkshire's greatest passions - ale and horseracing - are set to combine at this year's stables open day in Malton and Norton.

As part of the festivities, Malton Brewery and Suddaby Crown Hotel will be offering visitors the chance to name their own brand of beer in an exciting silent auction.

The beer has been concocted especially for the occasion, and will run for a limited period after the event.

More than 500 race horses - including Gold Cup winner Desert Orchid - as well as thousands of visitors, will be on hand to enjoy the event, which takes place on Sunday, September 10, from 9.30am to 1pm.

Famous racehorses on display include Royal Ascot winner Romantic Myth at Tim Easterby's stable and former Cheltenham Gold Cup favourite Jodami at Peter Beaumont's yard.

After 1pm a range of events will take place at the Langton Wold Gallops including a parade of hunting hounds, a celebrity pony Grand National and dressage display.

A bar and refreshments will also be available.

Malton Racing Association spokeswoman Rosemary Carter said: "We get about 10,000 people visiting each year and are very much looking forward to it."

PICTURE: CHEERS: Bruce Murray, left, and Neil Suddaby, owner of Malton Brewery, launch the auction to name the newest beer as Helen Mason, on former top racehorse Avro Anson looks on.

Picture: Garry Atkinson