Thistle do nicely, say businesses

Perthshire has bagged a double victory at the tourism Scottish Thistle Awards.

Two local businesses picked up accolades at the glittering national final at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre on Thursday.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Still Game and River City star Sanjeev Kohli co-hosted the evening with STV presenter and former Miss Scotland, Jennifer Reoch.

Moor of Rannoch won the region’s first prize of the night to be named Fishers Most Hospitable Hotel category.

Judges praised the Highland Perthshire establishment for its hands-on and personal approach to customer service, which includes meetings guests at the local train station. There was also recognition of the hotel’s commitment to supporting local school-leavers, sustainability and locally sourced produce.

Owners Stephanie and Scott Meikle said:“Our small team strives to give all of our guests the best possible experience of true Scottish hospitality and it is fantastic for their efforts to be rewarded with this recognition.”

Meanwhile, Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery claimed the ScotRail Best Visitor Attraction award.

The whisky distillery earned plaudits for its social media engagement and reach. The attraction was also commended on its community engagement and its collaborative working with other local visitor attractions.

General manager Charlotte Brown said:“We set out not just to represent ourselves, but to be ambassadors for the amazing visitor offering in Perthshire, and for whisky tourism as a whole.”

There was also a special commendation for the Black Watch Castle and Museum in Perth who narrowly missed out on winning the new Historic Environment Scotland - Best Heritage Tourism Experience.