Eight in running at Thistle Awards
Black Watch eyes up multiple tourism titles
Regional finalists from Perthshire are celebrating being in the running for prestigious Scottish Thistle Awards.
This year there were 640 entries from Scottish hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, visitor attractions and individuals who go the extra mile to provide exceptional service.
The names of those attractions, experience and accommodation providers have just been revealed by VisitScotland.
Eight businesses, individuals and events in Perth and Kinross have made it through to the regional finals with some nominees being shortlisted across multiple categories.
They were Fonab Castle Hotel and Spa, Kirklands Hotel, Errichel House, Craigmhor Lodge and Courtyard, Wee Adventures Ltd, Association of Scotland’s Self Caterers, The Enchanted Forest in Faskally and June Goodfellow from Taste Perthshire.
The Black Watch Castle and Museum has been shortlisted in three categories: best heritage tourism experience, best eating experience and Anne Kinnes, CEO at the museum, for regional ambassador.
Anne Kinnes said: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted in the best eating experience and best heritage tourism experience categories. To be recognised in these distinguished awards is a great accomplishment.
“I have an incredible team whose enthusiasm, innovation and dedication in sharing the Black Watch legacy creates a truly memorable experience for our visitors.”
Major General Mike RiddellWebster, chairman of The Black Watch Castle and Museum congratulated Anne on being shortlisted.
He added: “To be shortlisted for the regional ambassador Thistle award is well-deserved recognition for our CEO, Mrs Kinnes.
“She has been unremitting in her efforts to drive The Black Watch Castle and Museum forward and a number of exciting initiatives have taken shape under her leadership which have propelled the organisation to the front of national consciousness.”
The Black Watch Castle and Museum will go head-to-head with other tourism businesses in the Central, Fife and Tayside regional finals on November 15.
According to award organisers, the providers and people from around Perth and Kinross flagged up to go to the final are a good indicator of who has got it right when it comes to outstanding tourism.
Caroline Warburton, VisitScotland regional leadership director commented: “Perth and Kinross is renowned for its sterling tourism offering and with so many shortlisted finalists, it’s clear the region is leading the charge when it comes to excellence.”
Winners will be announced at the Central, Fife and Tayside regional final held at Prestonfield House Hotel in Edinburgh on November 15.