TWO west Dorset businesses have been shortlisted for national awards.

The Anchor Inn at Seatown has been announced as a finalist in VisitEngland’s Awards for Excellence 2017. The pub, owned by Palmer’s Brewery, is one of three finalists in the Tourism Pub category.

Also making the final is Dorset House in Lyme Regis, which has been named on the shortlist of the bed and breakfast category.

Owner of Dorset House, Lyn Martin, said: “We’re over the moon to be recognised by such a prestigious body and wish to thank our guests and local suppliers who have supported us over the past three years”

All finalists must wait until the awards ceremony next month to discover whether they have scooped a trophy.

Landlord of the Anchor Inn, Paul Wiscombe, said: “Having run the pub for more than 13 years, it has been a very long road in getting us to where we are today and it is an absolutely fantastic feeling knowing that the vision that I have had for the business for some time is now being recognised nationally.

“It has been a real team effort and I am awfully proud of the hard work and dedication of the ‘Anchor Army’ for what they have achieved.”

John Palmer, chairman and managing director of Palmers Brewery, said the Anchor Inn has achieving a growing reputation from visitors to west Dorset.

He said: “Palmers is immensely proud of all that Paul and his team have achieved over the last twelve months.

“The Anchor is one of the South West’s top destination pubs which draws visitors to west Dorset from far and wide.’

The winners of the prizes will be announced at the awards ceremony on Monday, April 24 at the Hilton Waldorf in London.

Working collaboratively with the industry, VisitEngland’s Awards for Excellence celebrate the best in English tourism.

VisitEngland chief executive Sally Balcombe, said: “Awards for excellence finalists exemplify outstanding tourism talent and distinguished businesses throughout England. We received more than 600 truly impressive applications this year and there’s absolutely no doubt that the finalists represent the very best in the industry.”