More than 40,000 people are expected to descend on York Knavesmire today and tomorrow for the July race meeting.

The two-day event - known as the John Smith's Cup race meeting - is home to Britain's longest-established sponsored race on the flat with prize money of £75,000.

This year's meeting also marks the first time the joint prize money has exceeded £200,000 with £227,750 on offer.

Racegoers will also be able to witness the British racecourse debut of the Tote Big Screen. Situated in front of the main stands, the 40 square metres of screen, will provide a bigger and clearer image of the action on the track than any previous screen.

Racecourse spokesman David Grouse said: "It should be an excellent race meeting. In particular, we're all looking forward to viewing the races on the new big screen - the picture will be phenomenal, probably the clearest in the world."

Racegoers could also be in for some good weather to accompany their day out. A PA weather spokesman said that despite the threat of overnight rain, Saturday should be clear with sunny spells.

Meanwhile, police were gearing themselves for a busy weekend dealing with the huge number of merry racegoers who are expected to venture into public houses on their way home.

Officers at Pocklington have announced a ban on all-male coach parties stopping off at pubs on their way back into East Yorkshire from York races. Areas involved in the ban include Stamford Bridge, Market Weighton and Holme-on-Spalding Moor.

Humberside police said there will be a high-profile presence during the evening and potential trouble makers can expect to be dealt with accordingly.

For the third year running, York pubs will remain open after the races.

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