BINGO, Ann Summers stalls and a shortest mini-skirt contest are all on offer at Sedgefield Racecourse's annual ladies' night this weekend.

This year the racecourse has joined forces with the Hartlepool and Stockton outlets of Mecca Bingo and every racegoer entering the Grandstand Enclosure will get a bingo card, with a top prize on offer of £1,000.

Last year's event attracted 5,000 people, even though it was held midweek, and organisers hope to top that this year by holding the event on Friday as the May Day bank holiday gets under way.

Ann Summers and Virgin Vie will have trade stands, competitions and prizes and a children's funfair will also be on offer.

Mr Allen said: "It was a fantastic atmosphere last year. In fact it was bedlam.

"With the meeting moving to a Friday night from midweek, we're sure it will be even more popular in 2003."!