On television he is large, loud and garishly eccentric. In the flesh he is even worse. But love him or loathe him, John McCririck is the face of horse racing.

So we would not have wanted anyone else as the star of our show when we hosted the second Argus Family Fun Day yesterday.

Dressed in his trademark outlandish hat, Mr McCririck waved maniacally at the camera as he provided tips for Channel 4 racing fans in the parade ring at Brighton racecourse.

He said: "Horses are beautiful animals and it's been a lovely, fun afternoon.

"The sponsors, At The Races, thought they would send uncle John down to look after the kids on the bouncy castle but the kids were terrified to see a monster like me so they grabbed me from the playground to talk about the horses."

Big Mac, as his admirers call him, stalked the ring puffing huge Lusitania cigars and bellowing tips in a voice as loud as his clothes.

He was among a big crowd in what turned out to be the busiest day at the racecourse this year.

George Higgins, 73, of St Aubyn's Mead, Rottingdean, came with his family. He said: "We are regulars at the races. Today is extra special because it's a fun day and there is a great atmosphere with space for children to run around. You also get to see some of the top jockeys in a top location overlooking the marina."

The 7-1 outsider Zafantage won the first race of the day in the maiden stakes.

Free entertainment for children included bouncy castles, bungee trampolines, face-painting, gladiator games, a giant ball pond, a penalty shoot-out, free helium balloons and a colouring competition.

Police officer Mark McCallum, 28, from Worthing, brought his wife, Nicole, 29, and their one-year-old son Charlie.

He said: "I'm a racing fan. This event was a good excuse to see the racing and bring the family as well."

Geoff Stickles, clerk of the course, said: "The family fun day is always good for racing. The advantage of Sunday racing is people can take time off with their families and it's more fun than an afternoon at Asda."

Money raised from the fun day will go to The Argus Appeal, which supports local charities.

Racecourse general manager Matt Hudson said about 4,000 people turned up throughout the day.

He said: "The weather held off for us. Last year there was torrential rain and the place was virtually a ghost town but this time it's been a great day for all.

"The people of Brighton have come in their masses to support us. The friendly, smiley faces of our staff make this the perfect course for families to come racing."