MONDAY evening's meeting at Thirsk is the prelude to the launch of Herriot Happenings, a full week of special events which begins the following Saturday extolling the attractions of the Thirsk and Hambleton region.

The World of James Herriot, the popular Thirsk attraction, will have a display of veterinary (especially equine) equipment, while a spectacular falconry display by Falconry UK of Sion Hill Hall takes place in the parade ring at 5.30.

To complement the action on the track, there's snail racing between races, including The Snail Derby.

Local trainers with entries in the Snail Derby include Lynda Ramsden, David Barron, Mark Johnston, David Chapman, Peter Beaumont and Bryan Smart.

The snail racecards cost £1, with proceeds going to the Injured Jockeys' Fund.

Racing starts at 6.30, the feature race being the Herriot Happening Handicap Stakes - a £14,000-added contest over 1m - while further highlights include The Calverts Carpets Handicap Stakes (one mile) and The Sky Bet Press Red - Bet Now Classified Stakes over seven furlongs.

The Carleton Furniture Group of Pontefract sponsor for the third year at this meeting, supporting a race for maidens over seven furlongs, while the final race of the evening is The Buck Inn, Thornton Watlass, Fillies' Handicap Stakes over the minimum distance of five furlongs.

A Caribbean steel band provides the evening's musical entertainment.

l Other meetings this week. - Monday: Beverley. Tuesday (evening); Sedgefield.