A glittering awards dinner celebrated the very best of Norfolk's tourism industry.

And the winner of the most coveted prize, the Outstanding Achievement award sponsored by Hoseasons, went to a woman who works tirelessly for the tourism cause - Aileen Mobbs, chairman of the Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival.

The EDP Visit Norfolk Tourism Awards put the spotlight on deserving businesses and individuals across the county at a black tie event.

Winners of the 15 categories were announced at the event at Potters Leisure Resort in Hopton, last week.

Bob Crawley, Archant's director of content, said: 'The EDP Visit Norfolk Tourism Awards is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate this booming industry.

'It casts into the spotlight our great businesses and organisations who fly the flag for our wonderful county in which we live.

'Everyone nominated should be proud of their achievements – it is your hard work which puts Norfolk on the map as a holiday hotspot.'

Guests began the evening with a drinks reception, sponsored by Paul Robinson Partnership, followed by dinner and the awards presentation.

Mrs Mobbs helps run Yarmouth's seafront Imperial Hotel and plays a leading part in the tourism life of Norfolk's biggest resort.

Together with her husband Nick, their tireless efforts and consistent investment has taken their coastal business from two star to the only four star property in the borough.

Mrs Mobbs has been involved with the maritime festival since it started, and has seen it grow and flourish to the point where it attracts more than 30,000 visitors over the weekend.

It has now become a September highlight on Norfolk's tourism calendar and has blazed the trail for other resorts in the region, illustrating how to maximise trade during the shoulder seasons.

Katie Hanger, brand manager at Hoseasons, praised the work of Mrs Mobbs.

She said: 'This person isn't simply focused on their own business as they play a very active role in the local tourism scene.

'She is undoubtedly one of Great Yarmouth's leading business and tourism figures.'