A PADIHAM company has become the first to receive a new award honouring its commitment to fighting racism.

Baxi shop steward Jimmy Ellis and human resources manager Ian Madson received the first award for tackling racism in the workplace.

The award was presented by representatives from engineering union Amicus and the local Labour Party in a ceremony at the Sparrow Hawk Hotel, Burnley, last night.

Amicus plans to launch the scheme nationally but the award for the heating company, based in Wyre Street, was the first to be presented.

Baxi was selected for the honour after workers and management joined forces to tackle incidents of racist graffiti appearing in the workplace.

A joint statement from management and the union was issued, pointing out the company had a zero-tolerance policy on racism.

It highlighted the company's position that the graffiti amounted to racial harassment and would be dealt with through the disciplinary and grievance procedure. It also reinforced the company line that racist behaviour would be subject to legal action.

Amicus regional officer Debbie Brannan said: "The traditional message for this time of year is one of peace and goodwill. That's why this award is especially important realising that there is no place in Burnley for discrimination, hatred and fear."