GROUND staff from Leigh and Golborne have helped Haydock Park Racecourse win the national award for the best racing surface in Britain.

The award was given by the Racecourse Association to recognise the high standard Haydock maintains during both summer and winter.

Haydock Park's general manager Adam Waterworth said: "This is a tremendous achievement for our loyal ground staff led by head groundsman Maurice Crooks. They work through all seasons whatever the weather to ensure we can put on the best possible racing."

As well as a trophy and a plaque, the Racecourse Association is giving £1,000 for machinery and £500 to be divided among the ground staff pictured here.