Cartgate Tourist Information Centre (TIC), run by South Somerset District Council, has received Gold as Visitor Information Service of the Year in the Bristol, Bath & Somerset Tourism Awards.
The mystery shopper report for the award, described the centre as “an exceptional little TIC, ideally situated on a very busy road into the West Country.” The TIC is on the Cartgate picnic site at the junction of the A303 / A3058.
The mystery shopper report went on to say “They take full advantage of their site and make it work. The staff are fully involved in local events and promotion of local producers and attractions. They achieve a great deal from a very small building.”
The awards were announced by Laura Rawlings from BBC Radio Bristol, at a ceremony held at Somerset County Cricket Ground. Laura was joined on stage by Marcus Trescothick MBE.
Four tourism businesses located in the South Somerset District Council area received awards: Dimpsey Glamping (Gold); RNAS Yeovilton Airday (Silver); Studio Farrows (Bronze); and Cow & Apple (Highly Commended).
Councillor Derek Yeomans, SSDC’s Portfolio Holder for Tourism, said “I’d like to congratulate all the South Somerset winners. I feel very proud that there is so much to enjoy in this area, for visitors and local residents. The TIC team do an excellent job in spreading the word about our attractions, heritage and countryside as well as local crafts and markets and I am glad this has been recognised with the Gold award.”
Other award winners in South Somerset:
- Dimpsey Glamping (Shepherd’s Hut), Combe St Nicholas near Chard – Gold in Glamping and Alternative Accommodation
- RNAS Yeovilton Airday – Silver in Tourism Event / Festival of the Year
- Studio Farrows, Aller, near Langport – Bronze in Bed & Breakfast of the Year
- Cow & Apple – Highly Commended in Restaurant / Bistro of the Year