CRAVEN tourism businesses are celebrating after being recognised at the annual Welcome to Yorkshire White Rose Awards.

Hundreds of people tuned in online to last night’s ceremony - said to be the biggest celebration of tourism in the UK , which was held virtually for the first time because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Chris Kamara, Yorkshire Shepherdess Amanda Owen, actor Nicholas Ralph, Paralympian Hannah Cockcroft and Dr Amir Khan, were among the stars who took part in the show, either performing or sending congratulatory messages to the winners.

Hosts Natalie Anderson and Rich Williams presented 17 awards to 16 top Yorkshire businesses and organisations in the tourism and hospitality sector, recognising the very best accommodation, attractions, food and drink, produce, arts and culture.

For ethical, responsible and sustainable tourism, the Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa, Bolton Abbey, won a silver award, while Hotel Rendezvous, Skipton, picked up a bronze.

The Clarendon Country Pub with rooms at Hebden picked up a bronze in the pub of the year section, while The Devonshire Fell, Burnsall, won a bronze in small hotel of the year.

Meanwhile, Catgill Farm Camping and Luxury Glamping, at Bolton Abbey also picked up a bronze award in the camping, glamping and holiday park of the year section.

James Mason, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “The easiest thing would have been to cancel tonight’s awards but that’s simply not the Yorkshire way is it? I’m so proud that despite the lockdown we’ve still been able to put these awards on to celebrate all our fantastic tourism businesses, albeit virtually. Never has our sector been more deserving of some cheerleading and recognition.

“The biggest of congratulations to all our White Rose Award winners, to everyone who got a silver or bronze award and indeed to every single finalist. I know how incredibly challenging this year has been, but the grit and determination to keep going is like nothing I’ve ever experienced. The sheer quality and diversity we’ve seen tonight is all the proof we need of how ready Yorkshire is to welcome tourists back safely when we can.”

The event also raised money for Yorkshire Cancer Research. The charity was due to be the official partner for the 2020 Tour de Yorkshire which has now been postponed until 2022.