Tourism awards follow Lindisfarne Gospels success

The hunt is on for the top North East hotels and attractions as NewcastleGateshead Initiative launch the 2013 North East England Tourism Awards.

Spread over 15 categories including the likes of Bed & Breakfast of the Year and Tourism Pub of the Year, the awards are now open to entries.

As the Lindisfarne Gospels return to the region this week, tourism businesses are being encouraged to celebrate experiences they offer visitors.

Sarah Stewart, chief executive of destination management and marketing organisation, NewcastleGateshead Initiative; said: “The North East England Tourism Awards recognise the achievements and quality of the tourism offer from Northumberland to the Tees Valley, across NewcastleGateshead, Tyne & Wear and Durham.

“Four of the region’s winners from 2012 went on to see success nationally at the VisitEngland Excellence Awards, and as the Lindisfarne Gospels Exhibition opens this week, there really is no better time to stand back and asses the many wonderful experiences and services on offer to visitors across the region.”

Last year’s winners included Kielder Water and Forest Park and Elizabeth Rowark, director at Kielder Water and Forest Park Development Trust encouraged businesses to take part.

She said: “I would certainly encourage any business to participate as these awards provide a focus for improvement in quality and product for visitors to the North East; the rigorous process proves the worth of any winner against their peers.”

Wendy Benson, sales and marketing director at Rockliffe Hall, said: “The VisitEngland Awards are extremely prestigious and to be a finalist for an unprecedented third year running, after succeeding at the North East England Tourism Awards is such a coup. “We’re competing with locations in city centre areas- like London- which is really difficult but we are getting there. Businesses are starting to appreciate what the North East has to offer- exceptional transport links, superb visitor attractions, great restaurants and stunning scenery- whether it’s for business or pleasure. We’re really proud to be able to represent the North East region at this level and against some massive competition.”

This is the second year NewcastleGateshead Initiative has delivered the awards, following the closure of One North East. The marketing body will operate in partnership with the Northern Tourism Alliance, an organisation comprising Northumberland Tourism, Visit County Durham, The North East Hotels Association and Hadrian’s Wall Trust.

The deadline for entries to the North East England Tourism Awards 2013 is Friday 06 September; the awards will culminate in a glittering ceremony at St James’ Park, the home of Newcastle United Football Club, on Thursday 21 November. Further information on how to apply can be found here.

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