The prestigious Dorset Tourism Awards are now open for entry with businesses from across the county being encouraged to take part.

Entering the tenth year, the awards have been a staple event for local tourism businesses since being launched.

The announcement comes fresh from the conclusion of the 2021/22 awards - the ceremony in February celebrated the county’s “resilient, creative and innovative” businesses after an extraordinary period for hospitality.

The 2022/23 awards cover the full range of tourism-related businesses including pubs, cafés and restaurants as well as accommodation, wedding and business venues, attractions, events and experiences. There is an award for Innovation and Resilience, as well as opportunities to submit entries for unsung heroes, new businesses, dog friendly, accessibility, wildlife friendly and sustainability.

Awards organiser Robin Barker said: “I’m astounded that this is the 10th year of the Dorset Tourism Awards. Let’s have record entries and make this a year to remember.”

Local winners last year included the West Bay Discovery Centre which won Gold in both Visitor Information Service of the Year and Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Business categories.

Trustee John West said: “We are absolutely delighted with this achievement. Having won the new Business Award only two years ago and since then having to face the challenges of Covid, just to have reached the finals this time was amazing and a great accolade for all the team. We are only a small centre, with a part-time manager and a fantastic group of volunteers so it is a great honour to be amongst some of Dorset’s best known tourist attractions."

Full details of the awards are at dorsettourismawards.org.uk

All entries must be submitted online by midnight on Sunday, June 19 but it is recommended that businesses plan ahead and start as soon as possible.