The Tourist Information Centre at the Cartgate Picnic area on the A303 has been recognised with a Silver award for Tourist Information Service of the Year at the Somerset Tourism Awards.
The accolade for South Somerset District Council’s Tourism Team who run the centre, praised the wide range of information, unique position, excellent display and gift selection.
Footfall on the site has been increasing year on year. 50,000 people have visited the centre this year and visitor numbers are set to grow with the influx of people who will come into Somerset to work on the Hinkley C Project.
Widely regarded as a “gateway” visitor centre for the South West, the staff deal with many and varied enquiries which this season have included: “I can’t remember the name of the B & B I have booked but I think it’s in Somerset?” to “I’m looking for somewhere to hold Nudefest 2016?”
Councillor Clare Aparicio Paul, SSDC Portfolio Holder for Tourism, represented the District Council at the awards ceremony. She praised the Council’s Tourism staff, saying: “Our small team are well-known for their warm welcome. Many people return each year with new questions because they know they can rely on the staff for accurate information. We receive some lovely comments in the visitors’ book.
“The team use their knowledge and flair to help people across all ages and nationalities and provide a great service for our local businesses in “selling” the area. I am delighted with the recognition this award brings for them and for our beautiful South Somerset”.
Photo: L to R: Guest speaker Sally Shalam with David James from Bath Tourism Plus (Award sponsor) presenting the award to Justine Parton (TIC Operations Supervisor), Bev Stapp (TIC Assistant) and Councillor Clare Aparicio Paul (Portfolio Holder for Tourism)