Businesses hope thistle do nicely
Tourism awards shortlist
Two West Lothian businesses have been shortlisted for tourism awards.
A tour guide based in Linlithgow and a selfcatering farm cottage business from West Calder will fly the flag for area, as the shortlist for the Scottish Thistle Awards regional finals is announced.
Emma Chalmers of Mary’s Meanders, which offers fully customised and escorted day tours around Scotland and Ireland, and Crosswoodhill Farm Holiday Cottages have made it through to the Lothian and Borders regional final of the Scottish Thistle Award when it takes place at Prestonfield House in Edinburgh next month.
Emma has be en shortlisted for a Johnstons o f E l g i n R e g i o na l Ambassador award and the West Calder selfcatering accommodation is up for the Bruce Stevenson Insurance Brokers – Best Se l f Catering Accommodation Experience.
The Scottish Thistle Awards are Scotland’s premier awards for the tourism industry.
They celebrate success, innovation, excellence and best practice in Scotland’s tourism and hospitality industry.
They also offer the opportunity to recognise those people who have made valuable contributions to the sector across the country.
Rebecca Brooks, chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards industry panel, said: “We have once again been delighted by this year’s response to the Scottish Thistle Awards. These rewards aim to shine the spotlight on the businesses and individuals who have shown real commitment and dedication to tourism in Scotland.
“Tourism is more than a holiday experience – it is the heartbeat of the Scottish economy and touches every community, generating income, jobs and social change. The Scottish Thistle Awards is a chance for us to celebrate those who work tirelessly to create a destination and customer experience worth talking about, ensuring that all visitors, whether from Scotland or further afield, enjoy a truly memorable time in our country.
“On behalf of the panel, I would like to congratulate all shortlisted entrants and wish each and every one of them the very best of luck at the regional finals.”
The Scottish Thistle Awards is led by a panel of industry experts from several organisations including VisitScotland, Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards, Highlands & Islands Tourism Awards, the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA), the Hospitality Industry Trust Scotland, Scotland Food and Drink, Scottish Tourism Alliance, the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, sportscotland and Wild Scotland.
Ne i l C h r i s t i s o n , VisitScotland regional director, said: “I am delighted to see such a strong representation from West Lothian at the Lothian and Borders Scottish Thistle Awards regional final. The region has an outstanding range of quality tourism businesses and an army of passionate advocates working within the industry to create a destination and customer experience worth talking about.”