The Six Pack offer, the scourge of the regular punter, but the lifeblood for stadia up and down the country, attracted a record 20,000 to Cowley last year.

The scheme, which offers punters a bet, a pint and a basket meal, has proved a popular venture and the crowds are a massive ten per cent up on last year.

Now with increased facilties at Sandy Lane, management are ready for the upward trend to continue in 2002.

Other figures are also encouraging, including an extra 12,000 diners, and although the tote and attendance figures have yet to be released, I understand the attendance was at least 6,000 higher.

Meanwhile, the membership for the Tuesday Club scheme in the Grandstand Restaurant now stands at 300.

The deal is designed to introduce bargain offers to members on Tuesdays with special discounts.

This month's deal sees free admission and racecard plus three-course meal for £11, and in February, any four people dining in the restaurant receive a free bottle of wine.

Anyone wishing to join should contact 01865 778222.

The exececutive suites for a minimum of 18 cost £23 per head on Tuesdays, £25 on Thursdays and £25 on Saturdays.

Meanwhile, another fast food bar was opened on Thursday in the lower enclosure.

The heats for the Mike Alan Trafalgar Cup for puppies March 2000 or younger, get under way on Tuesday, January 29 with the Gala finals night on February 2.

Because of Sky's coverage of the Pall Mall, the dates have been changed and instead of the usual Sunday final, it will now take place on Tuesday March 12.

The first round is on February 26, second round on March 2 and semi-finals March 7.

Oxford will soon name their new general manager, who will take over from Mick Hardy on March 1.