Halton Business and Tourism Awards 2009
A resounding success – that was the view of nearly 200 people who recently attended the inaugural Halton Business & Tourism Awards at the De Vere Daresbury Park Hotel. Networkers and entrepreneurs, unseen heroes and family friendly facilities were amongst those who received awards during a night which celebrated the best within the borough’s business community and its tourism industry.
The event was a joint venture between Halton Chamber of Commerce and Halton Tourism Business Network and was the first time that the achievements of the borough’s tourism industry have been recognised.
On the night, the staff from Norton Priory Museum and Gardens were thrilled to win two awards; ‘Team of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Customer Service’, which went to Tracey Crutchley, who will now represent Halton at the Mersey Partnership Annual Tourism Awards in June. Tracey was praised for her enthusiasm, passion and commitment to delivering over and above ordinary levels of service.
The Team received a great accolade from their judge who commented that he had never seen such a superb example of team work on the scale that Norton Priory demonstrated. He plans to use them as an example of exceptional team spirit when he trains his own teams in the future.
The category, ‘Outstanding Young Person 16 – 24 years’ was won by Sally Jones from The Holiday Inn, for her keenness to develop her skills and experience evident in her achievements to date, plus her outstanding knowledge of the local tourism industry.
George Houghton, despite being in his 80’s, works tirelessly to make the North West Vintage Rally, held in Victoria Park, such a success. He was shocked to win the ‘Unseen Hero/Volunteer’ award. However, the judges were greatly impressed by his commitment, enthusiasm and energy and regarded the extent of his free time devoted to this unpaid role as truly extraordinary.
The ‘Family Friendly’ category went to the Ski Party Instructors from Runcorn Ski Centre. Their passion, enthusiasm and their committed approach to catering to all customers’ needs but especially the younger members of the family, ensured they were worthy winners.
Cllr Rob Polhill, board member for tourism, said “It has been a fantastic night and it was great to see and hear about so many positive role models in our tourism and business fields. We are lucky to have so many wonderful people working here in Halton and tonight has given us the opportunity to be able to recognise their achievements.”
On the business side, Merseyside Printing, based at The Heath Business Park, was the big winner. Not only did John Dagnall win 1stuesday Networker of the Year but the firm won the prestigious Halton Business of the Year.
Roger Philips from Radio Merseyside compered the evening and commented on his lunchtime show that “It was a fantastic night. Everybody in Halton is so positive –you wouldn’t believe there is a recession on!”
The Council’s Promotions & Tourism Team are part of the Halton Tourism Business Network and have been part of the organising committee for the event, alongside representatives from Catalyst, De Vere Daresbury Park, The Mersey Partnership & Halton Chamber of Commerce. Plans are already underway to make next year’s ceremony an even more memorable occasion.