STAFF at a County Durham betting shop are to be VIP guests at a race day in Lancashire, after beating off competition from 650 other bookies.

The Chester-le-Street branch of Stanley Racing has been made Stanley Standards Shop Team of the Year, for the level of service offered by staff.

As a result, the employees will be treated to a day out at Haydock Races in Lancashire this week, where they will receive their trophy and prizes.

Stanley Racing area manager Steve Duffy said: "This is a fantastic achievement by the shop staff, who, in a very competitive area, are giving fantastic service to their customers.