BUSINESSES in Redditch and Bromsgrove have taken home top prizes at this year’s Worcestershire Tourism Awards.
More than 70 finalists were shortlisted by an expert panel of industry judges, with 15 winners recognised for their outstanding excellence and contribution to the county’s visitor economy.
All winners will now be put forward to the VisitEngland Awards of Excellence, where they will have the opportunity to compete at a national level.
Redditch’s Attwell Farm Park won the Accessible and Inclusive Award and Large Visitor Attraction of the Year
In Bromgrove Social Sticks – indoor golf, games and live sport – was highly commended in the New Tourism Business of the Year category and Canary and Kitchen won the Taste of Worcestershire Award.
The event also raised vital funds for local charity Acorns Children’s Hospice through a prize draw raffle featuring Worcestershire-themed prizes generously donated by tourism businesses.
In total, more than £3,900 was raised – the highest amount ever achieved at the Tourism Awards, providing invaluable support for the charity’s work.
Lorna Robinson, Visit Worcestershire’s destination tourism manager, said, “It was a truly fabulous evening celebrating Worcestershire’s wonderful tourism sector.
“I’m incredibly grateful to all our brilliant suppliers who went above and beyond to make the night so special, as well as to our dedicated sponsors and judges.
“A huge congratulations to all of our winners and shortlisted finalists – the standard gets higher every single year and it’s amazing to come together and celebrate such excellence in our visitor economy.
“It’s no secret that the past few years have been challenging for the tourism sector, but the commitment, resilience and sheer love that this sector pours into what it does is undeniable.
“We are now proudly a £1billion visitor economy, and that success is down to the passion and hard work of the businesses and people we celebrated tonight.
“I can’t wait to see who goes on to shine at the national VisitEngland Awards.
“Worcestershire will be cheering them on.”
Entries for next year’s awards will open next month, with Visit Worcestershire encouraging tourism and hospitality businesses to get involved.
The awards provide valuable recognition, increased visibility and the opportunity to showcase the very best of Worcestershire on a national stage.
