THE racing fraternity is putting the finishing touches to a traditional Easter open day.

Giving punters an opportunity to see behind the scenes of some of the sport's most successful stables, Middleham, is fast becoming the racing capital of the North, boasting more than a dozen yards in and around the historic North Yorkshire market town.

Most join the Good Friday Open Event, which includes a chance to meet and chat to top-flight jockeys, tour the facilities used to keep thoroughbreds in racing condition - and an opportunity to get close to the equine stars themselves.

Mark Johnson netted 134 winners in 2002, a year which saw the town's stables bring home more than £3m in prize money for the first time - and his Kingsley House stables are among those opening their gates.

Others top trainers involved include Karl Burke, James Bethell, Patrick Haslam and Ferdy Murphy.

Tickets for the day, which entitle holders to admission to all the participating stables as well as transport between them on a shuttle bus - are available in advance from the Middleham Key Centre, priced at £4.

Tickets purchased on the day will cost £1 more.

Information on the programme is available by telephoning (01969) 624502.