THE Kearsley-based Bethell Group has been awarded the British Safety Council award for the fourth year running.

Bethell had to demonstrate its total commitment to safety, a lower than average accident rate and the establishment of safety protocols throughout the workplace.

Managing Director Tim Kilroe collected the award from Sir Neville Purvis, director general of the British Safety Council, at an awards ceremony in the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

Mr Steve Wild, the Bethell Group's health and safety manager, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have won this award once again.

"Everyone should give themselves a pat on the back for the work done over the past year."

The Bethell Group employs more than 630 staff from its headquarters in Europa Park.

Turnover has increased in nine years from £500,000 to a projected £49 million.