The East of England Tourism Awards 2023-2024 are now open for entries, celebrating the unique and dedicated businesses that make our region a fantastic place to visit.

Entries for this year’s awards could come from the businesses themselves or from members of the public who may have had a great experience at a local attraction, holiday accommodation or eatery. Be sure to get your entries in so that your favourite is in with a chance of being on the big stage at our glittering awards ceremony in February 2024.

Eastern Daily Press: The Large Hotel of the Year award recognises full-service hotels offering top-quality serviceThe Large Hotel of the Year award recognises full-service hotels offering top-quality service (Image: Getty Images)

Here, we speak to the judges of the Large Hotel of the Year award, sponsored by Ensors, and the Pub of the Year award, sponsored by Everard Cole. They tell us what they will be looking for from entrants and what they bring to the judging process.

Large Hotel of the Year

Chris Barrett, partner, Ensors

Can you tell us a bit about your involvement in the tourism industry?

At Ensors, we work closely with our clients to provide strategic and practical advice, in line with ever-changing consumer and seasonal demands. We have been helping businesses within this sector to achieve their full potential for a number of years, and this experience puts us in the perfect position to help you to achieve the same.

Why were you keen to get involved in the East of England Tourism Awards?

I believe it is important to recognise and celebrate the successes in our region, and tourism is one of the industries at the forefront.

Eastern Daily Press: Chris Barrett, partner, EnsorsChris Barrett, partner, Ensors (Image: Ensors)

What do you bring to the judging process?

I think I bring a fair and concise overview of the businesses’ strengths and weaknesses. 

What have your previous experiences of judging been like?

It’s been a great experience to visit a number of large hotels in the area – each have had their own identity, and it’s been great to explore and get to know them better.  

What advice would you give to a tourism business that’s considering entering this award?

My advice would be to consider your company’s core values. If these are something you abide by, they will shine through and solidify your position as a strong entry. 

Pub of the Year

Gareth Hatton, associate director, Everard Cole

Can you tell us a bit about your involvement in the tourism industry?

The past 20-plus years of my working life have been devoted to the hospitality industry. Past roles have included pub and hotel management, hospitality recruitment and events management for a notable venue in Chelsea, London.

I have been fortunate enough to have provided front-of-house services to a host of royalty and celebrities from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to The White Stripes!

Why were you keen to get involved in the East of England Tourism Awards?

We were fortunate enough to sponsor this award last year, 
and it really was so satisfying to see so many independent and regional operators and all their staff recognised for their hard work.  

Eastern Daily Press: Gareth Hatton, associate director, Everard ColeGareth Hatton, associate director, Everard Cole (Image: Everard Cole)

What do you bring to the judging process?

I am very front-of-house orientated – due to my background. So, I believe my past ‘hands-on experience’ helps to better understand and highlight exactly what these businesses bring to the table, literally!

What advice would you give to a tourism business that’s considering entering this award?

Make sure you highlight your key qualities. Recognise your staff. Consider what makes you unique and stand out from the crowd. Tell me why I would want to visit you, instead of a similar pub that may be closer to me. I would quite happily drive 30-40 minutes to go to a pub that provided that USP.

Entries to the East of England Tourism Awards 2023-2024 close on Sunday, September 17, 2023. To enter or nominate, please visit tourismawards.co.uk

To find out more about the categories, please click here.