Dartmouth Visitor Centre has achieved ‘significant’ recognition in this year’s Devon Tourism Awards.
The judging panel said they were sufficiently impressed by the evidence that they decided to award a highly commended status to the centre in Mayors Avenue.
DVC manager Karen Perrow said only 12 months ago it was touch and go as to whether the centre would survive. But thanks to the hard work of directors, staff and volunteers and support from Dartmouth Town Council and subscribers the future looked much more optimistic. “This award is testament to the sustained brief in the centre and the dedication of volunteers,’ she said. “Two years ago Dartmouth TIC won gold at the Devon Tourism Awards and we hope this latest accolade is a benchmark in our recovery and our desire to offer the best service to the town, its residents and visitors.’
This year’s awards saw records broken yet again – with a record 205 entries in the Devon awards and 645 across the South West. From these, the panel selected 75 finalists based on evidence and reports from its judges who have this year carried out a record 120 visits to Devon businesses – most of them mystery visits.
Awards organiser Robin Barker, of Services for Tourism, said: “Judges were looking for evidence not just of ‘good’ but of ‘excellent’. To be Highly Commended, given the level of competition, is a very significant achievement indeed.”
The awards for Devon’s leading tourism businesses are now in their 8th year and winners will be presented with their prizes at a prestigious ceremony at the Guildhall in Plymouth on November 23, hosted by Britain’s leading travel commentator, Simon Calder. Mark Warnes, Property & Portfolio Director at Headline Sponsor Hoseasons, said: “We are once again very proud to be supporting these awards and very much looking forward to playing our part in
recognising the efforts and achievements of tourism businesses across the region. The time, energy and money they continue to invest in their offer is what keeps people coming back year after year, and what makes this area such an enduring holiday hotspot.”
Mr Barker added: “This year’s Devon Tourism Awards have broken all records. The competition has been tough and the standard outstanding. With tourism increasingly recognised as one of the UK’s and Devon’s most important industries, it is great to see so many exemplars of excellence across the county.”
pic: DVC manager Karen Perrow (second left) with some of the volunteer team outside the centre, where charity Christmas cards are now on sale.
