TWO stable staff members from a North Yorkshire horse trainer are in the running for awards that recognise hard work in the horseracing industry.

Alfie Mills and Emma Dwyer, who work at trainer Mark Johnston’s yard in Middleham, are hopefuls in the 10th annual Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards.

Mr Mills and Miss Dwyer are both in the running for awards which could result them and their co-workers winning a significant cash prize, as well as a prestigious award.

Mr Mills is a finalist for the Rider and Groom Award and Miss Dwyer is a finalist in the David Nicholson Newcomer Award, following a highly competitive judging process.

The evening is compered by Clare Balding at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower hotel in London on Tuesday, February 25 and the awards are presented by the record breaking 18 time champion jockey Tony McCoy.

The winner of the Rider and Groom Award will receive a prize of £5,000 with an additional £5,000 also being shared among the winner’s colleagues. The runners-up will win £2,000 each, with the same amount going to co-workers.

The winner of the David Nicholson Newcomer Award will receive £2,000, with the same amount shared by the yard and £1,000 goes to the runners-up.

Mr Mills is a rider and groom and has worked in the racing industry since 1969 and Miss Dwyer is the assistant yard manager.