BUDE Tourist Information & Canal Visitor Centre staff were recently invited to the eighth Tourism Awards ceremony. Designed to recognise the very best of tourism practice in the county, the awards have become a barometer for quality in the tourism sector.

The guest speaker, Kirstie Allsop, presented Bude TIC with a Silver award in the category of Tourism Information Centre of the year.

The TIC already work closely with 113 accommodation members, and are currently expanding their membership scheme to encompass local shops, businesses, activity providers and attractions.

Becoming a member of Bude Area Tourist Board provides much-needed financial support for the TIC, and in return TIC staff actively promote member businesses.

Mark Hibbard from Bude TIC said: "It is important that local residents utilise the services of the TIC too. Open every day, the newly renovated office has an extremely well stocked shop, offering local handicrafts, books, maps and gifts."

Helsbury Park at Camelford was a double winner. The business was awarded Bronze awards in both the Self Catering Establishment of the Year and the Sustainable Tourism Award category.

Primrose Cottage in Launceston also won a Bronze award in the B&B/Guest Accommodation of the Year category.

Teresa Timms of the award organisers, viticultural, said: "The tourism industry has certainly been tested this year and we can credit Cornwall's ability to overcome market challenges and hold its own to the quality of the tourism product that the county offers.

"This is a testament to the hard work of the Cornish tourism industry and the awards are a fantastic way to congratulate local businesses and to recognise their commitment to excellence."