ROYAL Ascot At York was spectacular, like nothing seen here before. So it is naturally disappointing to learn today that the meeting will not return to Knavesmire next year.

The redevelopment of the Berkshire course will be completed in time for the royal meeting in 2006, ending York's hopes of a second bite at this particularly juicy cherry.

We will not again see the Queen and the senior royals process along York Racecourse. Or witness the most colourfully outrageous outfits this side of Rio de Janeiro. Or thrill to five days of top class sport.

But Royal Ascot has left us with more than memories. The meeting injected millions into the York economy and the rewards will keep coming. Already hotels have taken bookings from Ascot racegoers keen to sample York in more depth, and a promotional campaign is planned which will say: "The Queen enjoyed herself here for a week - why not do the same?"

Ascot also bequeathed York a successful traffic masterplan for major race meetings, overseen with aplomb by the city council.

No doubt some traders will be relieved to know Ascot is not returning: their takings were well down that week. But the desertion of the city centre is unlikely to happen again now we have proof that the city functions normally during such an event.

York remains in the running for the relocated St Leger. The city's triumphant hosting of Ascot should make it firm favourite to win this classic meeting.

Updated: 09:12 Tuesday, October 11, 2005