Scarborough and Ryedale businesses win big at Welcome to Yorkshire White Rose Awards

Hundreds of people tuned in to the virtual awards show to watch the largest celebration of tourism in the UK.

The Welcome to Yorkshire White Rose Awards recognise the hard work of tourism businesses throughout the county, from pubs and hotels to visitor attractions.

This year's awards were presented online for the first time due to the ongoing Covid-19 lockdown.

TV presenter Chris Kamara and Paralympian Hannah Cockcroft were among the stars taking part with congratulatory messages for the winners.

There were scenes of joy and tears from those who have run businesses through some of the most challenging circumstances over the last nine months.

Five local businesses won gold on the night, including Scarborough's Stephen Joseph Theatre in the Arts & Culture Award.

In the B&B Guest House of the Year category Brickfields Farm in Kirkbymoorside won gold, Orchard Lodge in Scarborough won Silver and Cawthorne Lodge in Pickering won Bronze to complete a clean sweep of local winners in that category.

Welcome to Yorkshire's Chief Executive James Mason said: “The biggest of congratulations to all our White Rose Award winners, to everyone who got a silver or bronze award and indeed to every single finalist. I know how incredibly challenging this year has been, but the grit and determination to keep going is like nothing I’ve ever experienced.

"The sheer quality and diversity we’ve seen tonight is all the proof we need of how ready Yorkshire is to welcome tourists back safely when we can.”

Our local winners in full:

Arts & Culture Award

Gold - The Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough

B&B and Guest House of the Year

Gold - Brickfields Farm, Kirkbymoorside

Silver - Orchard Lodge, Scarborough

Bronze - Cawthorne House, Pickering

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year

Gold - High Oaks Grange, Pickering

Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award

Gold - National Centre for Birds of Prey, Helmsley

Self-catering Accommodation of the Year

Gold - Grand Get-Togethers, Malton