Tourism superstars are honoured

2 Jan 2019 11:33

LANCASHIRE'S shining stars were revealed at a glittering celebration of the county's £4.25billion visitor economy.

More than 400 people descended on new Preston venue Imperial Banqueting to find out the winners of 22 categories at the prestigious annual Lancashire Tourism Awards.

Blackpool-born star of West End, stage and TV Jodie Prenger was guest presenter. The annual event organised by Marketing Lancashire, recognises the contribution made by the county's tourism and hospitality businesses.

This year, more than 100 finalists competed for the prestigious titles and progressed through shortlisting, mystery shopping and interviews by panels of experts.

Rachel McQueen, chief executive of Marketing Lancashire welcomed guests saying: "A thriving Lancashire tourism sector contributes to the economy, to employment, to the culture, the quality of life and the prosperity of Lancashire."

The evening also saw me the Lancashire Tourism Superstar - the only category decided through a public vote - awarded to tour guide Simon Entwistle.

His Top Hat Tours see him traversing the length and breadth of Lancashire shouting loud about the county he is so proud of.

This year's winners also included The Bee Centre in Preston which received the Visitor Experience Award and Sustainable Tourism category and Chorley Live, winner of the Small Event award.

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