Gold for Laverock Law Cottages at tourism awards

Harvest and Dave Harris-Jones were presented the sustainable tourism prize at the ceremony in Bath on Monday.

Harvest said: “Dave and I are absolutely delighted to win the sustainable tourism award which recognises all the hard work of our whole family, to create a very special sustainable holiday destination. We were so proud to represent Northumberland on the national stage.”

Visit England judge Neil Warren had this to say about Laverock Law Cottages: “It was a pleasure to visit you and see all that you are doing particularly your passion and commitment shown in the meticulous attention for detail that you are showing in every aspect of making your business have the best possible impact.”

Seafield Caravan Park in Seahouses won silver in the holiday park of the year.

The prestigious awards, now in their 29th year, recognise, congratulate and celebrate businesses and individuals who raise the bar of England’s tourism offer.

VisitEngland chief executive Sally Balcombe said: “These awards shine a spotlight on our fantastic tourism industry with the winners showcasing the quality, innovation and excellence on offer throughout the country. These winners provide outstanding and truly memorable visitor experiences.”

In addition to the winners across 18 categories, there were three special awards: Outstanding Contribution to Tourism awarded to Historic Royal Palaces, Tourism Superstar winner Jim O’Reilly following a public vote and Travel Article of the Year awarded to journalist Richard Mellor.

Historic Royal Palaces received the award for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism in recognition of the powerful draw the royal palaces have on domestic and international visitors. VisitEngland’s Annual Attraction Survey found that in 2016 there was a seven percent increase in the number of visitors to historic houses and castles compared to the previous year.

The Tourism Superstar competition, run with the Daily Mirror, was this year won by Jim O’Reilly, a customer service