2018 Lancashire Tourism Awards, The Imperial Banqueting Suite, Preston

The glitzy Lancashire Tourism Awards event celebrated the brightest stars of the industry

The heroes of Lancashire’s tourism industry were revealed at a glittering celebration in Preston attended by more than 400 people.

The annual Lancashire Tourism Awards, organised by Marketing Lancashire, honour the people and businesses who contribute so much to Lancashire’s £4.25 billion visitor economy.

The winners of 22 categories collected awards at the event, which was held at Preston’s Imperial Banqueting. Blackpool-born star of West End, stage and TV Jodie Prenger was guest presenter, bringing her Lancastrian humour to the proceedings and performing some of her favourite songs.

This year, over 100 finalists competed for the prestigious titles and progressed through shortlisting, mystery shopping and interviews by panels of experts before the winners were revealed at the ceremony.

Rachel McQueen, Chief Executive of Marketing Lancashire said: ‘A thriving Lancashire tourism sector contributes to the economy, to employment, to the culture, the quality of life and the prosperity of Lancashire. The Lancashire Tourism Awards reminds us of the diversity the county has and how privileged we are to have such amazing experiences to offer visitors.’

Guests at the event were given a preview of a promotional film featuring Preston-born former Lancashire and England cricketer Andrew Flintoff, who is now one of the presenters of Top Gear. The film, We Are Lancashire, highlights the contributions the county makes locally, nationally and internationally to business, science, sports, innovation, the arts, and any other field you can think of. It is available to watch now, on our website.

The winners

Wedding Venue Award

Holmes Mill, Clitheroe

New Business Award

The Lawrence Hotel, Padiham

Taste Lancashire Restaurant Award

Twelve Restaurant, Thornton

Taste Lancashire Pub/Inn Award

The Spread Eagle Inn, Sawley

Taste Lancashire Producer Award

Batch Brew, Burnley

Holiday Village Award