A RACECOURSE is first past the post when it comes to safety matters.

Redcar Racecourse has won an International Safety Award, presented by the British Safety Council.

David Ballard, the council's director general, said: "The International Safety Awards highlight organisations that demonstrate commitment to health and safety. They are a mark of a proven and significant achievement in safety standards.

"By making safety an important feature of everyday work practice, Redcar Racecourse is reducing accidents and ill health while improving productivity and profitability.''

The award is only open to companies with below average accident rates, which then face a tough test to satisfy a panel of judges.

Applicants must also have good safety policies and plans in place, while being able to demonstrate a commitment to health and safety at the highest level, safety officer qualifications and details of significant advances in health and safety.

The manager of the racecourse, Richard Pridham, said: "We are delighted to receive the prestigious International Safety Award in recognition of our commitment to health and safety.

"Great credit for this award goes to our health and safety manager, Nick Russell, who has been instrumental in achieving the requisite standards.''

Congratulating all the award winners, Prime Minister Tony Blair said: "At its best, sensible health and safety should be about managing risks, rather than trying to eliminate them altogether.