AWARDS
Photo: Higher Wiscombe
The cream of Devon Rhys Roberts was recognised for his Outstanding Contribution to Tourism at the Devon Tourism Awards, which like their Cornish counterpart, were held online this year. Rhys received the accolade following his five years as chair of Visit Devon and decades contributing in multiple roles across tourism. The National Trust’s Kerry Dawson took the Business Leader award.
The Horn of Plenty - photo by Kitevision
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TALKING TOURISM
In total, 67 awards were presented across 24 categories. Accommodation golds went to Higher Wiscombe, Lincombe Hall Hotel, The Horn of Plenty, Andrewshayes Holiday Park, Stowford Farm Meadows, Highcliffe House and Brownscombe Luxury Glamping. Attraction and Experience gold awards were awarded to Exewake, the spa at Lincombe Hall, and Pennywell Farm, with Paschoe House taking gold for Wedding Venue and Lynmouth Pavilion Exmoor National Park Centre the gold for Visitor Information. Food and drink golds went to Fishcombe Cove Café, the PIG at Combe, the Three Crowns and The Angel – Taste of Devon. There were cross-sector golds for Leafy Field Glamping for access and inclusivity, Bolberry Farm Cottages for dog friendly, Little Comfort Farm for ethical, responsible and sustainable tourism, the Cottages at Blackadon Farm for new business and Quince Honey Farm for tourism innovation. There was much emotion as five Unsung Heroes were announced: Clive Simmons from the Palace Theatre in Paignton, Hannah Pattle of Pennywell Farm, Naomi Hunt from Powderham Castle and Sereny Damon from Dartmouth Steam Railway. A posthumous Unsung Hero award was also presented to the family and colleagues of Ian Stuart, in recognition of his hard work and partnership working across the sector.
SPRING 2021
