AXMINSTER Tourist Information Centre has picked up a silver award at the Devon Tourism Awards.

More than 300 guests watched the best of Devon business received awards for excellence. The Axminster not for profit organisation won silver in the visitor information category as the award ceremony last week at the Plymouth Holiday Inn.

The tourist information centre became a not for profit organisation 18 months ago and is independent and raises finances itself. Staff have been working hard to promote the Axe Valley and Axminster as a gateway town for the Jurassic Coast. New initiatives include an area guide, a website and social media accounts.

Jill Ruddick, manager of Axminster Tourist Information Centre, said the team were 'proud' to live and work in Axminster.

She said: "The whole team is delighted.

"This award is for all the volunteers, friends, committee members and staff who work so hard. We are all so proud to live and work in Axminster and promote such a wonderful part of east Devon."

Robin Barker of South West Tourism hosted the event.

Addressing the winners, he said: "You are all very special - in an era of ever dwindling public sector funding you are the industry leaders who can take Devon forward.

"More and more it will be businesspeople like you that must take the lead in putting Devon at the fore, ensuring it is at the forefront of what is one of the fast growing and most competitive industries in the world.”

Higher Wiscombe in Colyton won the gold award for dog friendly accommodation and self catering categories. Mazzard Farm in Ottery St Mary claimed silver prize for self catering - while both east Devon businesses won silver in the sustainable tourism category.

For more information on Axminster Tourist Information Centre, please call 01297 34386 or visit axminstertouristinformation.co.uk