York Racecourse change dress code as racegoers face blistering heatwave

York racecourse, often dubbed the 'Ascot of the north', has decided to loosen its strict dress code this Saturday following new heat-related health warnings. York is one of the nation's most beloved tracks with a racing programme considered the finest outside of the prestigious Royal Ascot.

Only last week during Royal Ascot, following an amber heat health alert, temperatures nearly hit 30C, and Surrey clocked the year's peak at 33.2C on Saturday. Management upheld the traditional morning dress code that sees gentlemen donning tailcoats, waistcoats, ties, and top hats in the exclusive Royal Enclosure. However, responding to a spate of heat health cautions from the Met Office predicting another scorcher, the decision has been made to relax the rules at York this weekend.

While the whole country braces for a second heatwave, with amber alerts declared across five regions and Yorkshire under a yellow alert due to rising mercury levels, adjustments at York could bring welcome relief.

A yellow alert refers to conditions unlikely to affect most, though potentially impactful for especially vulnerable individuals, or when it's uncertain whether the predicted heat might lead to more severe effects.

At York, there isn't a particular dress code for ladies. However, the latest guidelines stipulate that "gentlemen (and those identifying as such) are required to wear a jacket, collared shirt and tie" within its premier space, the County Stand.

This Saturday marks a pivotal change as the racecourse presents a seven-race card followed by a post-race concert headlined by Olly Murs.

The course declared: "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 and 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!"