Four Island tourism businesses have been awarded the region’s highest accolade at the Beautiful South’s Awards for Excellence 2011 held at Denbies Wine Estate, Surrey on 1 December.  Island businesses took top honours across a variety of categories beating off stiff competition from across the South East region.

The annual Beautiful South Awards are now in their 21st year and recognise businesses and destinations across the tourism industry for their exceptional levels of customer service and dedication to raising standards.  A high number of entries to the prestigious Awards led to an impressive shortlist with winners announced by hosts Sue Saville, Managing Director, Tourism South East and John Williams, Chairman of Tourism South East.

‘We offer our congratulations to all tonight’s winners’, said John Williams. ‘Our industry’s commitment to providing the best possible customer experience and to exceeding customer expectations is outstanding.  The Award winners have shown that they are truly the best-in-class. The current economic climate continues to present many challenges for the tourism industry - however, the standards achieved by our Award winners this year show their determination to provide their visitors and guests with memorable and outstanding experiences.’

Island businesses and attractions scored highly across a range of categories and top awards went to the Owl & Monkey Haven and Brading Roman Villa as exceptional visitor attractions, Hill Farm for their high quality self catering accommodation , and The Enchanted Manor for their outstanding Bed & Breakfast. All will now go forward to the VisitEngland national awards in 2012.