Vote for England’s tourism superstar!
Have your say during English Tourism Week
It’s English Tourism Week this week, where the huge tourism industry, which employs 2.6 million people, celebrates across the country. And you can have your say in voting for a superstar employee – someone who makes their attraction extra-special.
VisitEngland’s annual Tourism Superstar competition champions those who work in the tourism industry and the public gets to crown the winner. From tour guides to wildlife rangers, the finalists are all passionate about the destination they work in. Watch the video of the finalists here and read more below. The shortlist includes:
Andy Yeoman, Education Officer, Dartmoor Zoo, Devon
Dartmoor Zoo is a hugely-popular destination and its Education Officer, Andy, is always on hand to inform and entertain guests, including using sign language.
Ben Francis, Park Manager, Roarr! Norfolk
He joined Roarr! as a ‘scare actor’ and now Ben is Park Manager, the man behind the vastly-entertaining attraction.
Zeb Fisher, Learning and Discovery Manager, Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Isle of Wight
Zeb is a champion of the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, posting lots of social media content to bring the centre to the world’s attention.
Hannah Clapp, Head of Experiences, Muncaster Castle, Gardens and Hawk & Owl Centre, Cumbria
Hannah started as a volunteer and is now Head of Experiences, bringing such enthusiasm to her role, she’s credited with much of Muncaster Castle’s success.
Wendy Wilshere, Head of Volunteer Casting and Engagement, 11Arches / Kynren, County Durham
Another person who began as a volunteer, Wendy now oversees all the volunteers it takes to run Kynren - the huge 90-minute open-air show which narrates the story of England.
Southampton Saints, City of Southampton Port volunteers, Hampshire
The Southampton Saints are volunteers who welcome cruise visitors to Southampton, providing in-depth advice and knowledge. How good is that!
Steve Johnson, Operations Manager, Scarborough North Bay Railway, North Yorkshire
Steve started volunteering aged 11 and is now Operations Manager of Scarborough North Bay Railway, Britain’s biggest miniature railway.
Graham Barclay, Entertainments Team Member, Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park, Gloucestershire
So enthusiastic is Graham, many visitors return to the popular Cotswold Farm Park, because of him and his genuine care for the rare breed animals.
Max Sadgrove, Rides Team Leader, Adventure Island, Essex
Who wouldn’t want to work at a theme park? Max joined Southend’s Adventure Island at 16 and quickly became Rides Team Leader, thanks to his enthusiasm and commitment.
The team at Leicester Museums & Galleries, Leicestershire
The whole team behind Leicester’s museums and galleries, including its Cathedral, Old Town and Guildhall are up for an award for their enthusiasm in sharing Richard III and the city’s history.
You decide!
Cast your vote before March 23, here.
Plus! National Lottery Open Week – see sites for free
Until Sunday, it’s also the National Lottery Open Week, where you can visit 800 heritage sites and museums, plus National Trust sites for free, with a lottery ticket. To find your nearest location, visit here