CHESTER Racecourse's May Festival could climax in the future with a race around The Roodee over hurdles.

It's been done in the past and the initiative would be a hugely popular attraction and novelty. We'd almost certainly use the 'French-style' or brush hurdles that are jumped at Worcester and, on occasion, at Haydock Park Racecourses. The race would be the final event on the third day - City Day.

The possibility is now being examined in earnest, and there will be more news in coming months.

This year's May Festival was another success, with more than 60,000 racecourse visitors. It's great that the new favourite for The Derby won one of the big trial races.

If successful at Epsom, Gypsy King would be following in the hoof prints of Oath in 1999 and Kris Kin two years ago after his victory in the Dee Stakes, sponsored by Aberdeen Murray Johnstone & Halliwells.

It was on the recommendation of his new stable jockey that Irish trainer Aidan O'Brien saddled his first runners at Chester.

Kieren Fallon, a superb jockey around The Roodee, said: 'I think it's a great track, teaches horses a lot and one of my favourites to ride.'

As those who witnessed the race can testify, Gypsy King will certainly have learned a lot. Let's hope he puts it to good use at Epsom next month.

Chester's season is now well and truly under way, and Ladies Evening is the next fixture in the week after The Derby.

Meanwhile, Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse signs off for its summer break by staging a meeting on Saturday.

The first race at Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse on Saturday, is due off at 1.55pm. Admission to the Course Enclosure is £7 while the Paddock Enclosure is £14. For information, call 01978 780323. nThe next racing at Chester Racecourse is Ladies Evening on Tuesday, June 7.

For details, phone 01244 304610.