THE crowds flocked in their thousands to enjoy a sun-drenched day rubbing shoulders with some of the greatest stars of the racing world, both two and four-legged.

The annual Middleham Stables open day has become firmly established as one of the most entertaining days in the Yorkshire Dales' calendar over the past ten years.

And, even with some of the returns still to come in, yesterday's bank holiday spectacular proved to be one the best yet.

Official estimates put the numbers of those paying to get in at more than 7,000. And with youngsters getting in free, the final attendance figure was far higher.

One of the organisers, Marcia Kennedy, said: "It really has been one of the best days we have had.

"The whole town has been bustling like never before and the atmosphere has been absolutely great, with everyone being so happy and jolly."

Fifteen of the town's 17 racing stables threw open their gates for the day, which was to raise money for the Middleham Key Centre and a number of racing charities.

Visitors had the chance to see, at close quarters, four-legged stars such as Ryalux, the courageous runner which came from behind to beat the rest of the field at last week's Scottish Grand National.

Its stall at trainer Andy Crook's Ashgill Stables was a must-see for many enthusiasts.

Last year, Mark Johnston sent out 134 flat winners from his Kingsley House stables and his yard, in the shadow of Richard III's castle, was one of the other popular draws.

Many of the trainers and their staff were there to mingle with the crowds and answer their many questions.

Both Mark Johnston and jockey George Duffield, who this year was awarded the MBE, were also kept busy signing copies of their recent books.

The equine pool, where the horses, at least, could enjoy a cooling dip, was also highly popular.

The local pubs enjoyed a roaring business, while an accompanying market and craft fair was busy throughout the day.