Outstanding Customer Service Award

This award is given to owners, managers and staff within tourism businesses that have achieved an outstanding level of customer service.

 

Winner

Bob Evans

Brunel's ss Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Bristol

Descend under the stunning glas 'sea'; step back in time and; discover the lives of passengers and crew!

Since he started work for Brunel's ss Great Britain over 20 years ago, ship steward Bob Evans has consistently demonstrated exceptional standards of care. Affectionately known as ‘Captain Bob’, his approach and attention to detail is appreciated by colleagues, clients and trustees. 

What not to miss: The Curator's Choice is a gold ring inscribed with a dedication to Captain Charles Chapman. Visit the website to find out more. www.ssgreatbritain.org

National finalists

Ian Russell

Wroxham Barns, Wroxham Barns Limited, Tunstead Road, Hoveton

The 'must' family visit in Norfolk - you'll be spolit for choice all year round.

Ian Russell is a founding member of Wroxham Barns and received an MBE for his services to tourism in 2001. Ian’s in-house customer care training ‘From Good to Excellent’ gives staff the confidence to cope with problems. He also responds personally to every written complaint and suggestion.

What not to miss: New Mini-adventure 18-hole golf course - "Probably the best mini golf course in the East of England." www.wroxham-barns.co.uk

John Heaps

Magna Science Adventure Centre, Sheffield Road, Templeborough, Rotherham, South Yorkshire

Magna Science Adventure Centre is based in a former steal works packed with interactive science exhibits.

A former employee of steelworks, John is passionate about the steel industry and he entertains and mesmerizes visitors of all ages with his real life stories portraying his first hand experience of the perils of being a steelworker.

What not to miss: The Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition - An international showcase for the very best photography featuring natural subjects. www.visitmagna.co.uk

 

 

Regional winners

Lynne Barkas

National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire

I am proud to be involved with such a wonderful project of national importance. It has been a real pleasure to have met and worked with so many lovely people from all walks of life, many with their own personal reasons for coming here, and whilst there are trees and memorials here, I feel the Arboretum is all about people. I feel quite humbled really to have won this award because I’m just one link in a huge chain.

Lynne is a remarkable member of the Arboretum’s team whose drive, commitment and attention to detail is first class. She is able to deal with the upset emotional rawness that people very often have when they visit.

What not to miss: The Arboretum is a wonderful place to observe birds and other animals. Regular Wildlife Watch Groups are held for children between 7 and 14. www.thenma.org.uk

Tim and Linda Jee

Horseshoe Cottage Farm, Hallgates, Cropston, Leicestershire

A warm welcome awaits you at this home from home, where nothing seems to be too much trouble.

Linda’s caring, attentive attitude was proven when she supported a female guest whose husband had suffered a heart attack by drawing on past experience as a cardiac radiographer to explain what would happen before and after heart surgery, driving her to hospital and including her as part of the family over Christmas.

What not to miss: The farm is located near Bradgate Park, the ancestral home of the ‘nine day Queen’ Lady Jane Grey. www.horseshoecottagefarm.com

Gary Henshall

Sandcastle Waterpark, South Beach, Blackpool, Lancashire

Gary Henshall - Sandcastle Waterpark

Gary offers a friendly, personal and informative service and is always extremely aware of the wants and needs of customers no matter what their age or requirements.

What not to miss: Master Blaster - The world's largest indoor rollercoaster waterslide! www.sandcastle-waterpark.co.uk

John Wilkinson

Chesters Roman Fort, English Heritage, Bessie Surtees, 41-44 Sandhill, Newcastle upon Tyne

Chester Roman Fort on Hadrian's Wall is one of the best preserved Roman Cavalry forts in Britain.

John has always worked above and beyond the call of duty. From providing  several lifts to walkers to Hexham after they have missed their last bus (an eight mile detour from his own home) and opening the site earlier and later than planned to accommodate visitors.

What not to miss: The English Heritage-managed fort has fabulous remains, including the best preserved military bath house in Britain.. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Brendan Budgens

Best Western Reading Moat House, Mill Lane, Sindlesham, Wokingham, Berkshire

Overlooking the river Loddon, the Best Western Reading Moat House successfully combines the individual elegance of a modern hotel with the charm of a once productive 19th century mill house.  This beautifully situated 4 star hotel is the ideal venue for business and leisure.

Brendan is an outstanding manager who always gives 110% in everything he does to support managers and team members. He is passionate about the hotel’s customers and is always going the extra mile to achieve the highest of results.

What not to miss: The Best Western Reading Moat House makes the ideal base to explore the delights of Royal Berkshire. www.bw-readingmoathouse.co.uk

Nick Levantis and Marianna Femia

Village East, 171 Bermondsey Street, London

Village East is a stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in the heart of a creative community; it is comfortable and diverse, designed to reflect its customers - the young media & design crowd who work or live locally.

Nick Levantis and Marianna Femia are committed to exceeding expectations. When a new diner enjoyed a Chateaubriand for two as a main course and asked for suggestions on how to recreate the meal at home the following evening, with help from the head chef they provided recipes for a starter and dessert.

What not to miss: The lamb consomme has received very good comments. www.villageeast.co.uk

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