Two top tourist attractions and hotel boss scoop awards
A pair of tourist attractions and the man who runs Turnberry Hotel have picked up honours from VisitScotland.
The Scottish Thistle Awards, now in their 27th year, are given to those at the peak of their game.
Heads of Ayr Farm Park was judged Best Visitor Attraction in the West Finals.
The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum received the Best Heritage Tourism Experience award.
And Turnberry General Manager Ralph Porciani got a special trade award - the Tourism and Hospitality Hero. They were all in their glad rags for the ceremony at Oran Mor in Glasgow’s west end on Thursday night.
Heads of Ayr Farm Park was awarded the Best Visitor Attraction accolade, sponsored by Scotrail.
The farm and adventure park, which features more than 80 species of animals, also boasts a range of activities and play areas for all ages.
Judges praised the visitor attraction for continually developing its product and for building experiences around the publication of a book.
Farm director Greg Rankin said: “We always strive to provide a great enjoyable family day out for all of our visitors and this award is a greatly appreciated by everyone at the Park.”
Ralph Porciani ran the food operation at
Turnberry before taking over the top job five years ago.
He said: “Having been at Turnberry for over 15 years, I have seen first- hand the benefits of investment we have secured in the resort and its impact on the wider Ayrshire economy.
“We employ over 550 people, with 85% from Ayrshire, and we pride ourselves on working with local suppliers and partners to ensure authenticity throughout the resort.
“Through our work with Apprenticeship Hospitality Scotland and Developing the Young Workforce Ayrshire we will ensure that the next generation of hospitality professionals are well prepared to uphold our exceptional service.”
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway received the Best Heritage Tourism Experience award, sponsored by Historic Environment Scotland.
Judges praised the museum for providing an authentic experience and the creative use of visitor feedback.
Birthplace boss Caroline Smith said: “Winning this regional award in such strong competition is a fantastic recognition, encouraging us to continue to deliver the best possible experience for all our visitors.”
The three will go to the national final in March.