West Dorset held its own at a regional tourism awards night.

Four businesses were honoured at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards while the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site shared the plaudits with Dorset and East Devon Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), which collectively won the outstanding contribution to tourism award.

Dorset House in Lyme Regis won silver in the bed and breakfast of the year while Golden Acre Holiday Bungalows won bronze in dog friendly business.

The Town Mill in Lyme Regis won silver in small attraction of the year and the Acorn Inn at Evershot won silver in the tourism pub of the year category.

The awards ceremony was held in the Arena at the Riviera International Conference Centre in Torquay on Thursday, February 1 and was hosted by BBC news presenter Victoria Graham.

Organisers said there was a ‘fantastic turnout’ with 451 guests booked. The event is the biggest regional gathering of South West tourism businesses.

The Jurassic Coast Trust has been responsible for looking after the England’s Natural World Heritage Site since July 2017.

Chief executive Sam Rose said: “This award is fantastic recognition for the role our nature and landscapes play in helping to keep the South West a beautiful place with a thriving tourism economy. The huge value of nature is often overlooked as these landscapes are ‘free to enter’, yet they are so often the reasons why people choose to visit, live and work here, so are major drivers in the economy. As relative newcomers, the Jurassic Coast Trust are privileged to share in the award and to be seen as part of such an incredible group of natural spaces.”

The award was presented by Alistair Handyside, Chair of the South West Tourism Alliance, small business owner and long time supporter of the Jurassic Coast Trust and East Devon AONB. Alistair emphasised the hidden but very real costs behind looking after these stunning landscapes, and the reliance on both expertise and volunteers from all walks of life to keep the in great condition for future generations.

All entrants in the South West underwent a rigorous short-listing process with 416 being visited by a team of 45 mystery shoppers. Entry was free, and all entrants received feedback, giving them useful tips for future success.

Richard Stanbrook, Director of Title Sponsors, South West Water Business, said: “As headline sponsors for the South West Tourism Awards, South West Water Business continues to be fully committed to the prosperity of this important and thriving industry – helping businesses save money, improve their green credentials and capitalise on their long-term sustainability.

“We’re privileged to be sponsoring the Tourism Awards again this year and wish the very best of luck to all the finalists.”