DERBY runners are Haydock Park bound for one of the classiest races in Europe this weekend.

It's the final three-day meeting of the summer at the racecourse, featuring a ladies' evening on Friday and three races on Saturday worth a total of well over £100,000.

One of the world's most powerful training operations, Godolphin, is set to send Naheef, a Derby runner, for the £50,000 Group 3 Petros Rose of Lancaster Stakes.

And he could be challenged by Simeon, third in the French Derby, trained in Yorkshire by Mark Johnston.

Add to them Vintage Premium and Foreign Affairs, the last two winners of York's big summer handicap race - the John Smith's Cup - and a cracking spectacle and competitive betting heat are in prospect.

In the £40,000 Tote Exacta Stakes, the first two home in last month's Old Newton Cup at Haydock - Sun Bird and Barathea Blazer - are set to renew their rivalry.

One of the largest crowds of the year is expected on Saturday. Friday's evening fare proves a popular annual attraction too - with ladies' entering at half price.

The three major races on Saturday - which also include the Coral Eurobet Handicap - are televised on BBC2.

The BBC is increasing its coverage at Haydock throughout the year, with three meetings previously shown by Channel 4 switching channel, including the late November fixture when the One Man Novices' Chase is run.

*First race times on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (8-10 AUGUST) are 2pm, 6.10pm and 2.25pm respectively. Admission on Friday evening and Saturday afternoon to the Newton Enclosure is £7, Tattersalls £13, County Enclosure £22, and Premier Enclosure on the top floor of the Centenary Grandstand £35. On Thursday afternoon, the prices are £5, £11, £18 and £30. Advance tickets for all race meetings at Haydock are available by calling 01942 402624.

More information is available on the course web site www.haydock-park.com