Region set to star in tourism Oscars (From Gazette & Herald)

Region set to star in tourism Oscars

THREE North Yorkshire businesses are in the running for England's tourism "Oscars".

Among the 33 finalists short-listed for a gong are historic stately home Castle Howard and York-based self-catering holiday company York Luxury Holidays.

Also in the running is the tourist information centre in Harrogate. Other Yorkshire attractions nominated include the West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds.

The winners of the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence 2006 will be announced at a ceremony on Thursday, April 20.

Castle Howard's farm shop and courtyard caf were nominated for the Taste of England Award. Spokeswoman Nicole Hingley said: "Needless to say, we are very excited to reach the finals as it is recognition of our work with regional food and producers, including our involvement in the Ryedale Festival of Food and Drink."

Susan Kitchener, who runs York Luxury Holidays, said: "We are delighted, particularly because we only entered into our business just over a year ago. We have got our fingers crossed, but we feel as if we are winners just for getting this far.

"If we get the bronze we will open two bottles of champagne. If we get the gold, it will be 10!"

David Andrews, chief executive of the Yorkshire Tourist Board said: "For Yorkshire to have finalists in five out of 12 categories with nine regions competing for places in the shortlist is an outstanding achievement."

Updated: 11:09 Wednesday, March 08, 2006