'Tourism Oscars' to recognise sustainability

Tourism's commitment to sustainability and the environment will be recognised for the first time in the 2008 Enjoy England Awards for Excellence with the introduction of a new Sustainability Tourism Award.

Also new for 2008 are The Tourism Experience Award and Enjoy England Travel Journalist Award.

Finalists for fourteen award categories – not including the journalist award - have been published by Enjoy England following the selection of regional winners. An award for national outstanding contribution to tourism will also be announced at the ceremony, which will take place on 23 April 2008 in Liverpool, 2008 European Capital for Culture.

This year's national finalists range from stylish and eco-friendly boutique hotels and quirky Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) to historical rural retreats and self-catering cottages for the whole family. There is a diverse range of attractions including food festivals, the world famous Victoria and Albert Museum, Ascot Racecourse, Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum and the Attenborough Nature Reserve.

VisitEngland chairman Hugh Taylor said: 'I am delighted there is such a wealth of exciting and high quality tourism businesses going forward for our 'tourism Oscars' as well as new eco-friendly entries highlighting the importance of sustainability to domestic tourism.

'These Awards are all about celebrating quality and excellence in tourism, and it is vital we continue to drive English tourism business to strive for excellence – and that we showcase those who reach these high standards.'

To see the full list of awards categories and shortlists visit www.enjoyengland.com.

The headline sponsor for the 2008 Enjoy England Awards for Excellence is The Caravan Club. Visit the Club's award-winning website www.caravanclub.co.uk for more information.