More than fifty finalists from tourism businesses across Bristol, Bath, Somerset and Exmoor attended a gala dinner for 200 guests at the Winter Gardens, in Weston Super Mare, on 1 December, to discover whether they had won bronze, silver or gold.
This prestigious black tie ceremony was hosted by broadcaster and presenter Laura Rawlings and former professional cricketer, PGA golf professional and Weston resident Peter Trego. Every business took to the stage to be presented with their award to shouts of delight and appreciation.
Two special awards were announced to very surprised recipients. The first went to Nell Barrington for her Outstanding Contribution to Somerset Tourism for her work supporting tourism in the area over the last 24 years. The second, a Winner of Winners award, went to family run Long Hazel Park, Sparkford, for their commitment to excellence and providing the best possible visitor experience.
Deborah Heather, Chief Executive Officer, Quality in Tourism said “Quality in Tourism are thrilled to be headline sponsor for The Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards once again. What an exciting time all round, with great products, innovative businesses; the range and quality is simply excellent. Congratulations to all the winners“.
Kathryn Davis, Director of Tourism, Visit West went on to say “On behalf of all the team at Visit West, huge congratulations to all the winners. The visitor economy is hugely valuable to the region and so it is essential that we have a thriving quality and sustainable business community, and our winners clearly demonstrate the innovation, success and passion that sets their businesses apart. We look forward to seeing how they progress through to the regional and national awards, hopefully replicating the success of Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa and No.15 this year”.
Giles Adams, Chair Visit Somerset added “Once again we have been able to celebrate, acknowledge and reward those who work hard to achieve the best, here in Somerset. The visitor economy is evolving and I congratulate these dynamic businesses that are demonstrating how to engage with it and formulate outstanding product offers and service levels that will perpetuate Somerset’s reputation as a brilliant destination”.
Emma Thomasson, Chief Executive Officer, Visit Exmoor said “Congratulations to our winners, we have a phenomenal area offering and these awards showcase this by recognising the very best visitor economy businesses. Our finalists and winners should be so proud! Visit Exmoor are as ever excited to support these awards”.
Awards Director, Nell Barrington commented “What a fantastic celebration of the best of Bristol Bath and Somerset tourism and hospitality. After months of judging it was awesome to see these businesses get rewarded for their hard work, enthusiasm and excellence. A massive well done to them all. I want to thank everyone for their generosity by taking part in our charity raffle and donating prizes, raising a remarkable £1305 for our charity sponsor Age UK Somerset. Thanks also must go to our sponsors, supporters, judges and team who make the awards possible”.
Find the full list of winners are here.
Photo credit to Nick Williams Photographer.
