Date :
14/03/2014
A panel, comprising of some of the most senior figures in Scottish tourism, is to support a national competition, celebrating excellence within the industry.
For the first time, the Scottish Thistle Awards will be led by a several organisations, including VisitScotland, the Hospitality Industry Trust Scotland, Scottish Tourism Alliance, Highlands & Islands Tourism Awards and the Scottish Licensed Trade Association. The awards will continue to be organised and delivered by VisitScotland.
It means that the members of the industry will now play a key role in recognising and honouring the success of individuals and businesses.
Using a new simple and easy online application form, nominations can be submitted by individuals, by others in industry or by the general public.
Shortlisted entries will then compete in 13 regional categories. Each of which has been aligned with the Scottish Tourism Strategy 2020, re-enforcing links between the industry and the prestigious awards programme.
Regional ceremonies will be held in November in North East and Tayside, South/Central East, South/Central West and the Highlands and Islands, the latter will be managed by the Highland and Islands Tourism Awards. Winners in each category will then go on to represent their respective regions at a glittering final ceremony. The gala event will celebrate the best of the best in the Scottish tourism industry and mark a fitting end to Scottish Tourism Week 2015.
Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing said:
“The Scottish Thistle Awards offer a fitting platform to recognise and reward the hard work, dedication and innovation that is taking place within the Scottish tourism sector.
“It is a chance for those in the industry to celebrate great ideas and share best practice, while at the same time promoting the success of individuals and businesses to the wider public.
“We hope these changes will strengthen links right across the sector, ensuring the Scottish Thistle Awards continue to be an accolade winners can be proud of.”
Stephen Leckie, Chief Executive of Crieff Hydro Ltd and winner of the 2013 Silver Thistle Award, said:
“It was a real honour to be awarded the Silver Thistle Award last year and to share in the celebrations of the passionate and enthusiastic people working hard to support Scotland’s important tourism industry.
“These prestigious awards are a badge of honour for winners and I’m sure the exciting changes made to this year’s competition will only enhance the prestige of the awards and strengthen links right across the industry.”
To enter or for further information on the Scottish Thistle Awards visit www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk