A FAMILY-run racecourse which introduced its own betting system has been named the best small track in the North by racing fans.

A poll of The Racegoers Club's 5,000 members saw Ripon Racecourse rated on top for the fifth time since 1996, while York's Knavesmire track repeated its success of last year, being named the best flat racecourse in the country and overall runner up behind Cheltenham.

The club members praised the beauty of the Ripon track, which has been dubbed Yorkshire's Garden Racecourse, as well as the quality its new-look bars and restaurants and the ease of access to the parade ring and viewing areas.

The club added members regularly commented on the friendly staff at the North Yorkshire course, which will launch its season on Thursday, April 16.

In 2013, the 115-year-old racecourse severed ties with the Tote in a drive to increase its annual average of 80,000 punters through its turnstiles by setting up RiponBET, which has seen staff selling bets to racegoers around the racecourse and within its hospitality and restaurant areas using hand-held terminals.

James Hutchinson, clerk of the course, said it was set to unveil further moves to improve the experience for racegoers, including the introduction of three new hospitality rooms due to increased demand.

He said: “We are thrilled to be bringing the title back to Ripon.

"We pride ourselves on trying not only to meet, but also to exceed our customers’ expectations."

Mayor of Ripon, Councillor Mick Stanley, said the accolade was well deserved and that course had proved a strong asset to the city attracting large numbers of visitors from a wide area.

The Knavesmire track received feedback from the club's members highlighting the "excellent facilities, value for money and warm welcome" that they had received throughout the year.

William Derby, clerk of the course, said it was an honour to receive the backing of the racing fraternity.

He said: "I would like to thank and pay tribute to the whole team at York who, like others in racing, work so hard to deliver successful and enjoyable racedays.”

Perth and Kelso were voted the best large and small racecourses in the Scotland and North East region.