Deadline approaches for tourism Oscars

Tourism businesses in Driffield and the Wolds are being urged not to miss out on the chance to win an award which is described as an industry ‘Oscar’ and put themselves firmly in the spotlight for 2019.

With the deadline for theRemarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards, the REYTAs, approaching quickly, businesses can this year emulate Foston-on-the-Wolds-based establishment Side Oven Bakery, who were amongst the winners at last year’s ceremony.

The 2019 version will be held in March at the Bonus Arena in Hull.

The deadline to enter the REYTAs, which can be done online at www.visithullandeastyorkshire.com/reyta is Friday 18th January, following which a shortlist of finalists will be drawn up ahead of the showpiece on Thursday 14th March.

2019 marks 10 years since the awards were first held and according to recent figures, the value of tourism has grown from £698 million to £878 million annually and is responsible for an additional 4,000 jobs.

This year’s awards night is expected to be the biggest ever, marking a decade of growth in the industry.

“We certainly have some exciting plans for the evening that will get people talking,” said Andy Gray, Visit Hull and East Yorkshire tourism manager.

“We are delighted to be bringing the event to the Bonus Arena which itself has had a huge impact on the region since it opened in 2018.”

This year, there are 14 REYTAs to be awarded, including a new category, Remarkable Food Experience, which is open to establishments and organisations providing a consistent quality food or drink experience outside of a traditional restaurant setting, including breweries, vineyards, food and drink festivals and markets.

“There is always a tremendous buzz around the REYTAs, not least because it’s a showcase for all that’s best about Hull and East Yorkshire,” added Mr Gray.

“They are regarded as the Oscars of our tourism industry and attract massive media attention.

“I would urge everyone to get their entries in as soon as possible ahead of the deadlineon 18th January.

“Previous winners tell us what a difference it makes, not only for staff morale, but for marketing themselves to a wider audience.

“They are a kite mark for quality.”

The full list of categories for the 2019 REYTAs are as follows:

• Remarkable Hotel
• Remarkable Bed & Breakfast
• Remarkable Self Catering Provider/Property
• Remarkable Taste of East Yorkshire
• Remarkable Food Experience
• Remarkable Cuppa
• Remarkable Restaurant
• Remarkable Pub
• Remarkable Business Tourism Award
• Remarkable Holiday Park/Holiday Village
• Remarkable Newcomer
• Remarkable Visitor Attraction/Experience
• Remarkable Tourism Event
• Remarkable East Yorkshire Passion