Stirling tourism firms get their rural reward

Area’s tourism sector wins recognition with awards for four at glitzy ceremony

Tourism talent from rural Stirling has been recognised at the regional Scottish Thistle Awards 2016.

Portnellan in Crianlarich was crowned Best Accommodation Provider, Go Ape Aberfoyle won Best Outdoor/Adventure and Loch Earn Tourism Information (LETi) were handed the Working Together for Tourism accolade for their BLiSS trail art installations.

Kim Proven, Chair of LETi, was delighted with the recognition. She said: “We have proved that a small group can carry out an effective tourism campaign on a shoestring through local people’s skills, energy and enthusiasm.

“A huge thank you to our friends and collaborators, especially the artists and architects who lent us their time and magnificent art installations. We also really appreciate the way the villagers of Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, Strathyre and St Fillans embraced #BLiSStrail 2016 and continue to support it.”

Steven McGirr, site manager at Go Ape Aberfoyle, added: “The Scottish Thistle Awards are like the Oscars for Enterprise. It’s a good discipline to strive to be the best you can be, and the judging criteria really helps us focus on what we can do better.”

Also pleased with the recognition was Cameron Taylor, owner of Portnellan, who said: “For years I have set my sights on Portnellan winning the Scottish Thistle Awards.

“In my opinion, it is the only accolade to have within the Scottish Tourism industry. I am extremely proud of my team at Portnellan who have applied hours of hard work, determination, loyalty and commitment to achieving this award.”

Tom Lewis, owner of Monachyle Mhor Hotel in Balquhidder was also named regional ambassador before judges praised his contribution to the industry.

Rebecca Brooks, chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards Industry Panel, said: “A huge congratulations to all of the winners of the Central, Fife and Tayside Regional final and I wish them all the best of luck as they represent the region in the Scottish Thistle Awards National Final next year.

“Tourism is the heartbeat of the Scottish economy – supporting communities and creating jobs throughout the year in every corner of the country.”