The Diary has been on the loose, scouting around the stands and paddock at York Racecourse as racing returned to Knavesmire this week.

LOST, Lee? Ryder Cup golfer Lee Westwood looks stumped after being captured by Press photographer Frank Dwyer.

Westwood may have won millions with his exploits on the golf course, and graced the sport pages of the world, but it seems he's really a shy lad at heart.

Spotting him walking around the racecourse on Wednesday, diligent Frank moved in to ask for a picture. But Lee was not keen. Displaying the kind of dexterity not usually noted in a golfer, Lee successfully dodged our Frank and weaved his way into the Melrose Stand.

Unfortunately, for a sheepish Lee, he'd wandered into the wrong stand and was sent packing by a steward - straight into the lens of Mr Dwyer who captured this priceless expression.

Regular readers of the races Diary will know we like nothing better than to revel in the misfortune of unlucky punters - but even we had to feel for this cursed individual.

First up, he fancies Blue Spinnaker in the opening race on Wednesday, but feels the odds of 5-1 are a little too short. Naturally the Sheriff Hutton-trained horse romped home.

Next, feeling a little aggrieved, he places an exacta in the second race - a bet which tries to predict the horses which will turn in first and second. The result gives our Jonah a desperately unlucky first and third place.

Finally, he sticks a few quid on what he thinks is the favourite for the feature race Musidora Stakes.

Unfortunately, our hero has been staring at the Tote odds for the 2.50 at Exeter, and not the odds for the 2.45 at York - and has actually picked out a 33/1 no-hoper.

We think he should consider investing in a rabbit's foot - God knows he needs some luck.

HIS is one of the most familiar voices heard at York Racecourse.

Like the champagne, smoked salmon sandwiches and Pimms, the clipped tones of Brian Brown are part of the tradition of a day out on Knavesmire.

For those struggling to place the name, Brian's the guy who introduces each race - reminding those of us not entirely focused on the racing action that it's time for the "2.45pm Dante Stakes".

With a microphone in hand, Brian is the epitome of a stiff upper lip. Yet although he rivals Her Majesty in his use of received pronunciation, the Diary has learned that, off the course, Brian sports a broad North East accent. Fancy that, bonny lad.

Updated: 11:55 Friday, May 19, 2006