THE hot summer weather brought out the racegoers in their thousands for the second day of the early July York race meeting.

As well as the running of the 51st John Smiths Cup on Saturday, visitors to Knavesmire were treated to a flypast, including a Spitfire, to mark the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

The crowds also cheered on members of 4th Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, who were awarded their medals in the parade ring after recently returning from Afghanistan.

One soldier, Private Rob Parkinson, stayed on to enjoy a day’s racing with his family after the presentation.

He said: “It was very nice to be in front of a local crowd and it’s nice to see so many people appreciating us.”

Many visitors enjoyed the atmosphere, wearing their finest outfits.

Stephanie Price, 28, from Durham, said: “I’m a first-time racer and I am having a really good day. I would definitely come again - especially if I keep winning.” Her friend Carly Glasper, 28, said the girls had combined a hen night with a day at the races.

“I am having a fantastic day today – we are up so far and it’s a lovely day.”

Saturday’s attendance was the second biggest in the history of the racecourse’s modern era, said marketing manager James Brennan.

“We had an attendance of 42,524,” he said. “It was a quality race card and everyone works hard to put on a good show.”

• Starting today and lasting for two weeks, The Press is running a buy-one-get-one-free offer on Grandstand and Paddock tickets for the Press raceday meeting in September. The offer entitles the readers to a £13 saving on tickets.