Security measures in place for the return of Olly Murs at York

Officials at York are prepared for any signs of a Troublemaker, a number one hit by Olly Murs, who is the live act that follows the £150,000 seven-race card at the track on Saturday.

Murs, who is returning to the Knavesmire having played in 2010, one year on from finishing runner-up on X Factor, is the first of three headline acts at the course this summer, with Jess Glynne and All Saints taking centre stage post-racing on July 28 and 29.

A crowd of around 35,000 is expected, with the capacity already reached on the stands’ side and stewards well briefed in light of recent trouble at a Little Mix concert after racing at Newmarket.

James Brennan, head of marketing and sponsorship at York, said: “We’re aware of what happened at Newmarket and ahead of all our concerts we’re mindful of potential issues with a live crowd.

“We have safe zones dotted around the site and spotters in elevated positions on the lookout for any disturbance, but trouble hasn’t been something we’ve come across in the years we’ve staged music events."

Most of the attention in the north is afforded to the Northumberland Plate at Newcastle on Saturday, so Brennan and his team hatched a plan to attract a big crowd on a summer’s day.

Brennan said: “We’re delighted to have Olly back. He’s had a clear effect on our sales, which have proved hugely popular and if the part-time racegoer returns, then it’s a positive not only for York but the sport.”