TALK about good going – Folkestone has been honoured alongside the likes of Aintree and Cheltenham for the condition of its racecourse.

The venue was named runner-up among tracks used for both jumping and flat racing, in the Tote-sponsored Neil Wyatt groundstaff awards.

The grounds team, led by Mark Chinnery, consists of only three full-time and three-part time groundsmen.

The winner of the category was Haydock Park but the awards committee paid tribute to the team’s work in improving and managing the racing surface, while rubberising the walkway in the parade ring and carrying out improvements to the stable yard and hostel facilities.

Winners of other categories included Aintree and Cheltenham.

Mr Chinnery said: "I feel very proud. We are a small team but it just goes to show what you can do with hard word and dedication."