WRITER and broadcaster Jules Hudson is to host for the inaugural Visit Herefordshire Tourism Awards being held at a gala dinner at Lyde Court near Hereford later this month.

A thorough judging process has taken place over the past few months, with specialist judges and industry experts called upon from across the sector to help crown the best of Herefordshire tourism businesses.

Four local business have been shortlisted in the inaugural Visit Herefordshire Tourism Awards.

These are the Hostelerie at Goodrich, which is a finalist in B&B / Guesthouse of the Year category; The Wythall Estate Vineyard in Walford is a finalist in the ‘Experience of the Year’ category; The New Inn at St Owens Cross is a finalist in the ‘Pub of the Year’ category and the Rapids Cottage in Symonds Yat is a finalist in the ‘self-catering accommodation of the year’ category.

With over 60 businesses across the county having been named as finalists, everyone will come together to celebrate their achievements at the event and find out which tourism provider in each of the14 categories will be crowned winners.

Jules Hudson, who lives with his family in Herefordshire is passionate about the county and country life, and is best known as the leading face of the BBC’s rural property flagship Escape to the Country, said: “I’m thrilled to be invited to host this event where we celebrate the best of Herefordshire’s thriving tourism industry and recognise the hard work and dedication that goes into running businesses in this sector.

“The ceremony promises to be a landmark event, celebrating the innovation, dedication, and excellence of Herefordshire’s tourism providers.”

All the award winners from the Herefordshire event will automatically be shortlisted for the national Visit England Awards for Excellence later in the year.