RACECOURSE staff are celebrating after their track become a finalist for two industry awards.

Chelmsford City Racecourse near Braintree has been entered into the prestigious Showcase Awards, hosted by professional body the Racecourse Association.

The racecourse has been listed as only one of five finalists in the events category for attracting new customers through events held on the track.

A Ladies' Day initiative for women is said to have impressed the judges, encouraging ladies from around Essex to enjoy a day of racing.

The race day was held in June this year.

Competition entries for the events category had to demonstrate a strategy in building a the racecourse brand and encouraging return visits.

Chelmsford City Racecourse has also been listed as a finalist in the social media category for its presence on Twitter and Facebook.

Commercial manager at Chelmsford City Racecourse Jill Turner said: “The team at Chelmsford City have worked tirelessly, over the three years that the course has been in operation, to ensure that the annual Ladies Day event becomes a fixture in the Essex social calendar.

"The racecourse has formed partnerships with some fantastic local organisations such as Heart Essex, Intu Lakeside and Essex Life magazine amongst others.

"It’s fantastic that our efforts have been formally recognised after such a short period of time!”

The winner will be revealed at the Showcase & Awards ceremony on November 16 at Newbury Racecourse.