Truro Cathedral was awash with celebrations on the 13th of November as 69 trophies were presented to the leading tourism and hospitality businesses from Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly at the 24th Cornwall Tourism Awards.
The event was the conclusion of four months of judging, with 81 visits carried out by the team of independent judges. Hospitality businesses of all kinds were recognised for their excellence in customer service, sustainability, digital communications and accessibility.
Guests were entertained by a special ‘awards performance’ from Miracle Theatre, along with an interview with Becki Osborne from Polmanter Tourism Park following its success in the Cornwall and national VisitEngland awards last year. A parallel raffle in aid of the Miracle Theatre’s Youth Engagement Programme Project raised over £1,895 for the charity.
The trophies were presented to Gold, Silver and Bronze winners in 24 different categories, in addition to a special Outstanding Contribution award to Blue Badge Guide Viv Robinson, and the Winner of Winners award to Watergate Bay Hotel.
Stuart Reid, Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, this year’s Headline Sponsors, said: “On behalf of everyone at the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, I’d like to congratulate all winners of last night’s Cornwall Tourism Awards. Your dedication, talent and hard work have set a brilliant example for the industry. Your success not only celebrates your teams but also plays a vital role in showcasing Cornwall as a vibrant destination that visitors love to explore. Well done!”
Awards organiser Robin Barker of Services for Tourism added: “Behind the scenes I have the privilege of reading the judge reports from visits to these businesses, many of which bring tears of delight to my eyes! The innovation, resilience and dedication of tonight’s winners is simply extraordinary. Many congratulations to them all.”
Many of the Gold winners in the Cornwall Awards will be nominated to represent Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly in the national VisitEngland awards later next year.
For a full list of winners visit www.cornwalltourismawards.org.uk
Image credits: Keynote Photography
