Dorset tourism businesses were celebrating in numbers on the 1st of February as 260 winners and sponsors of the 11th Dorset Tourism Awards were presented in Weymouth Pavilion.
The event saw a return to pre-pandemic numbers as hospitality businesses of all kinds were recognised for their excellence following a rigorous judging process. Many are also excited by the chance of onward progression to the regional South West and national VisitEngland awards.
The awards were preceded by an introduction by journalist Dr Kate Adie, recently announced as the new President of the Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England. Kate inspired guests with her observations on Dorset and tourism, highlighting her experiences of memorable visitor welcomes even during tough times, that tourism is an industry that matters, and that it’s an industry that doesn’t get the status it should.
65 winner trophies were presented including a Winner of Winners award to Dorset Museum, a special Unsung Hero award to the Tank Museum’s Rosanna Dean, and a further special Future of Hospitality award to Marsham Court Hotel.
Amanda Park of sponsors Visit Dorset said: “As proud sponsors of the Dorset Tourism Awards, we are delighted to have the opportunity to come together and celebrate the amazing variety and quality of our fantastic tourism industry, which contributes so much to our Dorset economy. Congratulations to all the finalists!”
Councillor Millie Earl, BCP Council Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities said: “It’s great to see that so many exceptional tourism businesses from the BCP area were represented at last night’s Dorset Tourism Awards, and I add my congratulations to all the winners.”
Awards organiser Robin Barker of Services for Tourism added: “I want to add my congratulations to businesses that have literally wowed our independent judges. To deliver excellence in these times is a huge testament to their commitment and dedication.”
Co-organiser Nell Barrington added: “It has been a fabulous evening celebrating with the best tourism and hospitality businesses in Dorset. Congratulations to every one of them not only for their award this evening but for everything they do, all day every day.”
Successful businesses in the Dorset Awards will now be fast tracked into the South West Tourism Excellence Awards in March and possibly into the national VisitEngland awards later in the year.
The full list of winners can be seen at www.dorsettourismawards.org.uk
Photo credit to Nick Williams
