Tickets are selling out fast for the EADT EDP Norfolk and Suffolk Tourism Awards 2018 ceremony, which takes place at St Edmundsbury Cathedral on February 8.

Eastern Daily Press: St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds is the venue for the Norfolk and Suffolk 2018 Tourism Awards. Picture: Phil MorleySt Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds is the venue for the Norfolk and Suffolk 2018 Tourism Awards. Picture: Phil Morley (Image: Archant)

Located close to the border between the two counties in Bury St Edmunds, the magnificent cathedral is ideally placed to host the 300 guests expected to attend.

With origins dating back to the 11th century, it also embodies the UK's appeal as a world-class holiday destination for culture and heritage, two issues that are repeatedly identified as major draws for overseas visitors.

Marie Taylor-Stent, the cathedral's marketing and events manager, said: 'We are thrilled and honoured to be hosting the first newly merged Norfolk and Suffolk Tourism Awards 2018.

'The Cathedral is at the heart of the community in Suffolk as a place of worship, and also as a major tourist attraction that is open and welcoming to all.

Eastern Daily Press: Sommerleyton hall; by katy evansSommerleyton hall; by katy evans (Image: Archant)

'It is an iconic building with deep history and beauty and will provide a fantastic backdrop to celebrate excellence within the tourism sector in the eastern region.

'The Cathedral is proud to share the vision that, by working together, we can build a more compelling package of reasons for visitors to choose Suffolk and Norfolk and the surrounding areas as a visitor destination.'

The awards celebrate the achievements of local tourism businesses over the past 12 months.

In what was seen as another major boost for the awards, organisers announced earlier this year that the event has partnered with VisitEngland.

Eastern Daily Press: Norwich Castle Museum. The castle keep. Picture : ANTONY KELLYNorwich Castle Museum. The castle keep. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence celebrate the very best in English tourism and are seen as the country's premier tourism awards.

Organisers said: 'As a finalist for the Norfolk & Suffolk Tourism Awards you can now provisionally apply for the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.'

There are seven categories that will automatically be considered: Holiday Park and Village of the Year; Best Small Visitor Attraction; Best Large Visitor Attraction; Sustainable Tourism Award; Best Independent Hotel; Best Bed & Breakfast; and Best Self Catering Establishment.

• For tickets to next year's black tie event, contact the events team on 01603 772819 or visit www.tourismawards.co.uk