A local tourist information centre has been awarded top marks for its levels of customer service.

Haworth Tourist Information Centre scored a maximum 100 per cent score in the English Tourist Board's nationwide survey of facilities for able and disabled people.

The information centre on West Lane is one of only 13 centres out of 560 to be awarded the prestigious accolade.

It is a massive boost for the centre which has improved dramatically on its last assessment when it received 39 per cent.

The assessment took place in September when a professional and independent 'mystery shopper' visited the Haworth office.

The mystery shopper tested staff at the centre on a series of questions including some on access for the disabled.

Staff were quizzed on accessibility of an attraction in the region, knowledge of local wheelchair hire facilities, and booking suitable accommodation.

In addition, the customer care levels were assessed and the centre was awarded marks on its levels of professionalism.

And in all areas the staff at the centre excelled and were awarded full marks.

Manager Tricia Tillotson says: "We are very pleased with the results of this survey because customer care is something we are very aware of and take very seriously.

"In this day and age it is very important to be fully aware of facilities for disabled people.

"A lot of hard work has gone into providing a good service and a lot of credit must go to the four other members of staff."

Chief of Bradford council's community and leisure services Cllr Barry Thorne is full of praise for staff at the centre. He says: "We have put a lot of investment into the centre and the staff have worked incredibly hard and have been very enthusiastic."

Cllr Thorne says the centre's resident cat, Thomas, is still proving to be a big attraction, with many people visiting the centre just to see him.

Global tourism interest, page 4

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