HEAVY downpours meant extra money for charity at York Racecourse yesterday, as racegoers made donations to keep out of the rain.

Although there were bright and warm periods, the unpredictability of the weather saw extra rain cover brought out to shelter the 9,000 visitors to the racecourse, who gathered for the first day of a two-day event.

James Brennan, head of marketing for the racecourse, said: “It’s been generally okay, and most people have enjoyed the day.

“We’ve had some bids in for the silent auction which has been running all week, and we’ve been selling umbrellas for Macmillans from lost property and from sponsors who have changed their logos. Those who didn’t come with a brolly have left with one, and done their bit for charity, so the rain has helped out in that respect.”

The final day of the meeting today will see a special race take place to raise money for the cancer charity, with the 12 riders asked to raise sponsorship to take part.

James said: “It’s the first-ever Macmillan charity race, and the 12 riders have been asked to raise £2,500, which would total about £30,000, and they have already come up with more than £50,000 between them, so they have done a fantastic job on behalf of the charity.”