A TOWN fast becoming the racing capital of the North opens to the public again this Easter.

The Middleham Open Day is an established event on the calendar and crowds are expected to number in their thousands on Good Friday.

A total of 16 stables will be open as well as equine pool and a stud where new foals may be on show.

Between them, trainers at Middleham scooped £3m in prize money last year, winning 275 races on the Flat - the most recorded by Mark Johnston of Kingsley House, who managed a ninth consecutive century of wins and a personal best for his stables of 134.

George Moore, of Warwick Lodge, needs only a handful of victories to take his tally over 700 this year, while George Duffield, of Sun Hill Farm, at nearby Constable Burton, will have fond memories of 2002 as it was the year he was awarded the MBE for services to racing.

Meanwhile, 2003 has already had its highs for Ferdy Murphy, of Wynbury Stables in East Witton, who achieves second place in the Cheltenham Gold Cup with Truckers Tavern - although he will be hoping Ballinclay King goes one better in the Grand National at Aintree.

Gates are open between 9.30am and 1pm on Friday, April 18, with admission for over 12s costs £5.

A single ticket entitles the holder entry to all the stables and free transport on shuttle buses running between them throughout the day.

More details are available on (01969) 624502 or online at www.middlehamstablesopen event.co.uk.