York's big businesses are still battling it out to win recognition for their work in helping small firms with health and safety as part of City of York Council's Good Neighbour Awards.

Included in the rush to meet the March 2003 deadline are Nestle, British Sugar, Marriott, Norwich Union, Fulcrum Health and Safety Consultancy and First Stop Safety.

The competition, launched in October 2002, challenges York's larger businesses to produce the most interesting and helpful method of sharing their knowledge and expertise to help York's smaller businesses comply with health and safety law.

200 places on free training courses have been provided to date, in addition to free advice and audits, handbooks and posters.

There are still places available on two free courses provided by Nestle Rowntree York at their factory on February, 18 and 25, 2003, lasting around four hours.

The course, an introduction to health and safety and risk assessment, is ideal for any small firms that need help in this area of law or those who need an update on health and safety legislation. Places can be booked by contacting Jackie Armitage on 01904 551525.