Fylde coast pair pick up silver

The Cartford Inn at Little Eccleston picked up silver in the Tourism Pub of the Year category, while Ascent Trampoline Park in Blackpool was runner-up in the New Tourism Business section.

The awards were handed out at a prestigious ceremony at Bath Assembly Rooms.

The national awards, now in their 29th year, celebrate businesses and individuals who excel in the delivery of tourism excellence across England.

This latest success adds another accolade to a long list at The Cartford Inn which, only this year, was named in the prestigious Top 50 Gastropubs and was awarded two AA Rosettes.

The multi-award- winning pub, on the banks of the River Wyre, is owned by Patrick and Julie Beaume with talented chef Chris Bury leading the kitchen. It is now recognised as one of the best places to eat out in the county and boasts new luxury lodges and rooms for the ultimate gourmet break.

Ascent Trampoline Park has been quick to jump to success. Despite being open little over a year, they have attracted visitors in their droves.

At 40,000 sq ft, it is the largest trampoline park in the UK and has more than 100 trampolines, a flip zone, dodgeball, slam dunk basketball, foam pits, an air bag and a ninja assault course.

VisitEngland chief executive Sally Balcombe said “These awards shine a spotlight on our fantastic tourism industry, with the winners showcasing the quality, innovation and excellence on offer throughout the country.

“These winners provide outstanding and truly memorable visitor experiences.”

This years’ competition was intense with up to three finalists selected in each category from hundreds of submissions.

Latest VisitEngland statistics show that from January to November 2017 Brits took more than 44 million holidays in England, spending in excess of £10bn on staycations, up five and six per cent respectively compared to the same period in 2016.