Organisers of the first World of Racing exhibition held at York say they are already planning a second event despite a disappointing turnout.

The three-day showcase for the racing industry attracted only 8,000 people, drawing its largest crowds yesterday. Organisers had been hoping for attendances of up to 25,000.

Belinda Boyd, spokeswoman for the organisers, said: "This has shown that there is definitely a need for an exhibition next year and we hope it will be in York. We've have a very good welcome, everyone's been wonderful, although the numbers have been a little disappointing."

She said the organisers, Pan Presentations Ltd, would be reviewing the event in light of the low turnout.

Patrick Thornber, spokesman for First Stop York, said: "Certainly, we welcome what was a ground-breaking event, the first of its kind, and if the numbers were below what was expected I'm sure that will be rectified next year.

"As with any inaugral event lessons will be learned and word of mouth will be an effective medium for next year."

The most popular events with the public had proved to be the Shetland Pony Grand National and Desert Orchid, and a Sunday service by the racing rector of Middleham, the Rev David Eyles.

Two of the big draws with the audiences were Belinda Murphy, a holistic horse healer, and Michael Peace, who uses the Monty Roberts method to break in horses, sometimes known as "horse whispering".

Spectator Ken Molyneux, from York, said: "It was enchanting to watch. There was a lot of cynicism in the audience, but when the horse joined up with him quite voluntarily and approached him, everyone went quiet."

Nigel Smith, from Heworth, said he had gone along to the event with friend, Diane Longbottom, because he enjoyed going to York Races.

"I've enjoyed it, it brings people more awareness of racing and gets youngsters involved as well."

And Gill Sturdy, from Dringhouses, another racegoer, said she had taken along husband Andy and son Tommy for a good day out. The highlight for her had been seeing Desert Orchid.

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