THE marine safety division of Chemring, Pains Wessex Safety Systems, has won a top industry award.

It has won the safety equipment award and the overall supreme award at the Marine Excellence Awards, for its new GPS emergency-position radio beacon.

Using the latest in satellite technology, the device works in just three minutes, avoiding potential delays. It updates the information every 20 minutes, pinpointing its position to around 30 metres.

"We are extremely pleased to receive these awards,'' said Chemring chief executive David Evans.

"The group aims to be at the leading edge in terms of both technology and design in all of its business areas, and we are delighted that our marine safety division is recognised for excellence with this innovative life-saving product.''