SUNSHINE, sun lollies and scores of spectators - just three of the magic memories which marked another fabulous Evening Press Sunday Raceday.

A bumper crowd of nearly 23,000 splashed on the sun lotion and took to Knavesmire for the event, which was hailed by race chiefs as another massive success in a golden year for York Racecourse.

The sixth time the Press has sponsored the Sunday fixture, York's very own "mini-Ascot" was a smash hit from the moment the gates opened on a scorching afternoon.

While the crowds basked in the September sun in the champagne lawn, the stands and in the course enclosure, the action was also hot on the track - with punters cheering home four Yorkshire winners.

Hardened punters mixed warmly with parents and children as 22,804 gathered for the seven-race card, an attendance only bettered by the record 25,000 which turned out for last year's family-friendly raceday.

Smiles were wide and only the ice cream vendors looked flustered as racegoers and city luminaries, including York City managing director Jason McGill, mingled - leaving little to do for the Roman soldiers who manned the gates to the racecourse citadel.

The Pimms were flowing for Stephanie Mundell and her group of friends who gathered to celebrate her 30th birthday.

"This is my official party," she said. "I wanted to do something different so we thought why not go to the races? I am definitely enjoying it, but I am not too interested in the horses, I am hear to have a drink!"

Wearing eye-catching matching green outfits were seven-year-old twin sisters Alexandra and Emelia Evans, along with four-year-old sibling Frances.

Mum Jacqui said it was the first time the young trio, who live in Holgate in York, had enjoyed a day out at York Races.

"I am a regular at York, but it is their first trip here," she said. "This is a great family occasion and we are hoping for an enjoyable day."

James Brennan, York Racecourse marketing manager, said the Evening Press-backed Sunday had been another tremendous day out.

"Yet again, the best thing has been the atmosphere on the course and all the smiling faces," he said. "It was great to see all the families about and this was an ideal way to come and relax for those who have had the day planned into the calendar."

Updated: 10:15 Monday, September 05, 2005