THIRSK Racecourse has been named as one of just five finalists in a prestigious national awards.

The venue has been shortlisted in the ‘Love of Sport’ category of the Showcase & Awards, hosted by the Racecourse Association.

It was selected in recognition of a unique event - ‘The Creditas Taking Care of Business Stable Staff Stakes’ - that saw jockeys and stable staff change places.

The race gave stablehands the chance to step out of the yard and show their skills in the saddle whilst also raising £5,000 for Racing Welfare.

It also showcased the employment opportunities available within the sport to a wider audience.

The race was a huge success, with 12 dedicated stable staff riding with the support of their jockeys, and plans are in place to make it an annual event.

James Sanderson, racecourse manager at Thirsk, said: “We are delighted to have selected as a finalist in the category ‘Love of the Sport’.

“We are up against some stiff competition, so to get this far is a great achievement for the whole Thirsk team.”

The winner will be revealed at a ceremony on November 8 at Aintree Racecourse.