Arran businesses in running for Scottish Thistle awards

VisitArran and The Douglas Hotel are in the running for a regional Scottish Thistle Award.

The prestigious competition, which celebrates excellence in the Scottish tourism and hospitality industry, will see businesses, events and individuals from not just Arran and Ayrshire, but also Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Argyll & Bute, West Dunbartonshire and Dumfries and Galloway, battle it out across 15 different categories.

Winners will be announced at the Central South West regional final at Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow on Wednesday, November 4, with successful finalists in each category then going on to represent their respective region in the glittering national Scottish Thistle Award final next year.

This year saw a recordbreaking 615 entries submitted, including hundreds of nominations from members of the public keen to recognise hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, visitor attractions and individuals who go the extra mile to provide customers with exceptional service.

Categories, which are aligned with the Scottish Tourism Strategy 2020, include Fishers Cleaning Services Ltd’s most hospitable hotel, for which title The Douglas is in the running and tourism – everyone’s business, for the prize which VisitArran is trying to win.

Three businesses in Ayrshire have also made the shortlist.

Annique Armstrong, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: ‘To have five local businesses flying the flag for Ayrshire and Arran at the regional Scottish Thistle Awards final is a great achievement and a chance to celebrate those who are doing everything they can to ensure visitors are offered the warmest welcome and first-class service. I’d like to wish all businesses the best of luck!’

For more information, visit: www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk