Awards dished out to Northern Ireland tourism's best

More than 300 members of the tourism industry gathered at a gala event staged at the Ramada Hotel, Belfast for the 2001 Northern Ireland Tourist Board sponsored wards.

The award ceremony, which took place on Thursday March 7, is in its tenth year and for the first time took place without the backing of British Airways.

Northern Ireland Tourist Board boss Roy Bailie said: “The industry has had a very difficult time over the past year in particular and its members must be encouraged to continue their hard work.

“Only with their support and commitment can we ensure the excellence of product and service necessary to promote Northern Ireland on the international front. These awards highlight the hard work and commitment that is apparent throughout the industry and the tributes paid tonight are well-deserved.”

Sir Reg Empey who was a guest of honour at the event said Northern Ireland’s tourism industry had exhibited great fortitude in the face of adversity, considering the effects of September 11 and the scourge of foot-and-mouth. However he said that the industry was only operating at a third of its potential.

“Tourism contributes 2 per cent to the overall economy. It could contribute at least 7 or 8 per cent. That is an extra £500 million that could be generated through our hotels, bed and breakfasts, breakaway holidays and heritage sites”.

The award ceremony, which was presented by UTV’s Paul Clarke and BBC Newsline’s Donna Traynor dished out nine specially commissioned Tyrone Crystal trophies while the runners up received Certificates of Commendation.

The winners in the nine categories were: Best Visitor Attraction: The Odyssey Belfast; Best Catering: The Old Schoolhouse Inn, Comber; Best Pub: The Kitchen Bar, Belfast; Best Event: North West Fest 2001, Portrush and the 11th World Senior Amateur Boxing Championships, Belfast; Best Marketing: Hastings Hotels Group; Best Accommodation Hotel: Manor House Country Hotel, Killadeas; Best Accommodation, Other Than Hotel: Cromore Halt Inn, Portstewart; Tourist Information Centre of the Year: Derry Tourist Information Centre; Tourism Training Trust Training Award: Hastings Hotel Group.

(AMcE)