York racecourse makes decision on strict dress code in heatwave after Royal Ascot refusal

York racecourse’s strict dress code is to be relaxed on Saturday after another heat health alert was announced. Often referred to as the ‘Ascot of the north’, York is one of the most popular tracks in the country with arguably the best programme of racing outside of the royal meeting.

Last week at Royal Ascot, after the nation’s heat health alert was raised to amber, temperatures hovered just below 30C and on Saturday the highest temperature of the year so far of 33.2C was recorded in Surrey.

Nevertheless, despite the heatwave, the track’s management opted to keep the traditional dress code in place across all five days and required gentlemen to wear morning dress, comprising a tailcoat plus waistcoat, tie and top hat in the exclusive Royal Enclosure.

On Thursday the Met Office issued a series of heat health alerts for most of the country ahead of a second heatwave.

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Amber alerts are in place in five regions while a yellow alert was issued for Yorkshire with temperatures set to rise into the weekend.

A yellow alert is issued during periods of heat that would be unlikely to impact most people but could impact those who are particularly vulnerable; or when the confidence is low that forecast conditions may lead to more significant impacts.

At York there is no dress code for women but according to the official guidance “gentlemen (and those identifying as such) are required to wear a jacket, collared shirt and tie” in its top enclosure, the County Stand."

That will change on Saturday when the track stages a seven race card with a concert after racing featuring Olly Murs.

The course announced: "No Jacket Required This Saturday! With sunshine in the forecast, we're relaxing the dress code for Summer Music Saturday featuring Olly Murs on 28th June!

"County Stand & Hospitality guests: No formal jacket needed, but gents, please remember a collared shirt and tie is still required. Shorts are welcome in all areas, so dress to stay cool and comfortable!"