St Edmundsbury Cathedral has been unveiled as the venue for the Norfolk and Suffolk 2018 Tourism Awards sponsored by Hoseasons.

Eastern Daily Press: St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds has been named as the venue for the Norfolk and Suffolk 2018 Tourism Awards. Picture: Gregg BrownSt Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds has been named as the venue for the Norfolk and Suffolk 2018 Tourism Awards. Picture: Gregg Brown (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 attending the event on February 8.

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.

The awards celebrate the achievements of local tourism businesses over the past 12 months and this is the 14th year that they are being held, but the first time the two counties are being brought together.

Marie Taylor, PR, marketing and events manager at St Edmundsbury Cathedral, said they were 'thrilled and honoured' to be hosting the Tourism Awards 2018.

Eastern Daily Press: St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds has been named as the venue for the Norfolk and Suffolk 2018 Tourism Awards. Picture: Andy AbbottSt Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds has been named as the venue for the Norfolk and Suffolk 2018 Tourism Awards. Picture: Andy Abbott (Image: Archant)

She said: '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.

'We are proud to partner with Archant to plan a fantastic celebratory evening. The cathedral is an iconic building with deep history and beauty and will provide a fantastic back-drop to celebrate excellence within the tourism sector in the region.'

EDP editor David Powles said the UK was renowned for its culture and heritage.

He said: 'For hundreds of years churches and places of worship were at the forefront of community life in the region so it seems fitting that we host the 2018 tourism awards at a venue that displays the value of these assets.'

Eastern Daily Press: Marie Taylor PR, Marketing and Events Manager, St Edmundsbury Cathedral. Picture: Courtesy Marie TaylorMarie Taylor PR, Marketing and Events Manager, St Edmundsbury Cathedral. Picture: Courtesy Marie Taylor (Image: Archant)

Terry Hunt, EADT editor, said: 'St Edmundsbury Cathedral will be an absolutely stunning venue for the tourism awards. I have attended an awards event at the cathedral and everyone there was hugely impressed by the way this magnificent building was absolutely perfect for such an occasion.'

The evening will consist of a drinks reception sponsored by Paul Robinson Partnership, a three-course dinner and the awards ceremony. There are 11 categories open for public nomination or businesses to enter.

The winners will be announced at the black tie event in February. For tickets, contact the events team on 01603 772371 or visit www.tourismawards.co.uk. Enter or nominate your favourite tourism business online at www.tourismawards.co.uk