Tourism businesses urged to enter ‘green’ awards

An East Devon tourism business has been commended for its success as the only representative of the District to be shortlisted this year for a Green Tourism gold award.

And other East Devon businesses have been urged to follow their example and enter award schemes to fly the East Devon flag.

Councillor Iain Chubb, EDDC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, has congratulated the proprietors of Hedgehog Corner B&B in Axminster for reaching the Green Tourism gold stars final listing, with the winners to be announced in November.

The business, which is the nearest recommended Bed and Breakfast establishment to River Cottage HQ in Axminster and only a short drive from the Jurassic Coast, already has a clutch of awards, including Gold from Taste of the West in 2012 and Silver for Outstanding Customer Service from South West Tourism in 2013.

The latest accolade means that Hedgehog Corner is the only East Devon representative to be shortlisted in any category within the Green Tourism 2013 awards scheme.

Iain Chubb said: “I’d like to congratulate the proprietors on their achievement in being shortlisted for this prestigious award. It’s important that we recognise and celebrate our successful businesses in East Devon – especially those that are contributing to the green agenda.

“And of course this business is a short hedgehog scuttle from the wonderful Axe Valley Wetlands – one of the finest green tourism attractions in the South West.

“It seems a shame that only one East Devon business is in the finals. I’m sure we have lots of businesses in the District that are worthy of an award – but of course you have to enter the scheme to stand a chance of winning. I’d like to encourage more local businesses to put themselves up for this type of award so that next year we have even more to boast about”.