RYEDALE businesses shortlisted in a major Yorkshire tourism awards are celebrating making the finals.

Out of 103 finalists in a huge number of categories, seven Ryedale destinations have made the finals of the 2019 White Rose Awards.

Both Castle Howard and the Star Inn at Harome are finalists in two categories each, and the Vale of Pickering Caravan Park, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Malton-based Grand Get-Togethers, Go Ape Dalby and the Pheasant Hotel, Harome, have also had nods.

The tiny village of Harome is cementing its reputation as a gastronomic destination with two restaurants reaching the finals of the Taste of England Award.

Andrew Pern, owner of the Star Inn, said: “It’s fantastic to be nominated in two separated categories of the White Rose Awards on the same day as our 23rd anniversary of being open, here in Harome.

“We have always flown the White Rose flag at home and abroad, cooking and promoting the fabulous produce of God’s Own Pantry.”

Jacquie Pern and Peter Neville, co-owners of the Pheasant Hotel, Harome - now marking its 10th anniversary - said: “We are delighted to be finalists in the Taste Of England category of the 2019 White Rose Awards. These awards celebrate excellence in the Yorkshire tourism and hospitality sector and we are grateful to all our staff, guests and, of course, brilliant local suppliers who have helped us get this far. Fingers crossed for the final judging.”

Molly Coombs of holiday home business Grand Get-Togethers, nominated in the Self Catering Accommodation of the Year category, said: “We are thrilled to receive recognition as one of the best self-catered accommodation businesses in Yorkshire against extremely tough competition. It makes all of the hard work and changeover days worthwhile, we could not do it without our incredible team.”

The White Rose Awards, run by Welcome to Yorkshire, celebrate the best in tourism and hospitality in Yorkshire, including food, drink, arts and culture, accommodation and attractions. The final takes place at the First Direct Arena in Leeds on November 25.