The groundstaff at Carlisle Racecourse have been named the best in the country.

The five-strong team at the Cumbrian track have been crowned National Groundstaff Champions at the annual Racecourse Association Awards.

The dedication and hard work of Thomas Wootten, Adam Irving, Daniel Wardlow, Mark Rudd and David Robinson was recognised with the prestigious award at the event in Edinburgh.

They pipped Grand National course Aintree as well as York to the top prize, with judges commenting on the judges commenting on "the superb team spirit amongst the groundstaff and exquisite turf produced throughout the year" at Carlisle.

Their victory follows Carlisle’s earlier win in the Dual-Purpose category of the awards in September.

That put them forward for the overall prize where they went up against fellow Jockey Club racecourse Aintree and York, who were winners in the Flat and Jump categories respectively.

Officials at Carlisle have spoken of their pride in the award.

Clerk of the course Harry Phipps, who oversees the team, said: “We’re all incredibly proud to have been recognised in this way, especially when up against such tough competition from both our colleagues at Aintree and the team at York.

“Thomas, Adam, Daniel, Mark and David work tirelessly to ensure that the track is always at its best, and they are an absolute credit to us here at Carlisle.

The Carlisle team saw off competition from Aintree and York to win the big prizeThe Carlisle team saw off competition from Aintree and York to win the big prize (Image: PA)

“We race year-round on both the flat and over Jumps, so there really is no let-up in their schedules.

“They are an incredibly dedicated group and this award is thoroughly deserved.”

The RCA commended the Carlisle team for their commitment to environmental sustainability, equine welfare, and innovation as key factors behind their success.

The Jumps season is now well underway at Carlisle racecourse, with several fixtures taking place over the coming weeks. To find out more, visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/carlisle