A GAS pipeline company is being praised by a safety watchdog as an example to others.

BP Exploration in Middlesbrough, has been given a top, safety award.

Firms are awarded star ratings by the British Safety Council - from one to five - to indicate the effectiveness of their programmes.

David Ballard. director general of the British Safety Council said: "Good safety is good business and can save firms hundreds of thousands of pounds. In winning a five-star award, BP Exploration has shown real commitment to improving health and safety in the workplace. Integrating this into the overall management agenda is undoubtedly the key to improving health and safety standards in the workplace and preventing accidents.

"I hope it will continue to build on its achievements and that others will follow its good example."