A COMMITMENT to quality is topping the agenda for Chester’s tourism businesses – all determined to defy the economic downturn.

More than 10 of the city’s tourism providers have been shortlisted for the Visit Chester & Cheshire Annual Awards after a record-breaking number of hotels, B&Bs, attractions, retailers and other tourism-related businesses decided to bid for honours.

Emma Bellis, of award organisers Visit Chester & Cheshire, said: “The record number of nominations received indicate that many businesses–large and small – see striving for and celebrating success as a key factor in surviving and thriving in the recession.

“Now, when people take day trips, book a hotel or plan a meal out, they want to know that they will enjoy the experience and get value for money. What better way to showcase quality than winning an award or two!”

He added: “In these trying economic times, attention to detail has never been so important. Going the extra mile costs nothing but it could pay real dividends. It’s been a challenge short-listing the candidates and will be an even bigger challenge to choose a winner in each category!”

The short-listed candidates for all 14 categories, which include Bed & Breakfast of the Year and Excellence in Business Tourism, are now being judged by a panel of industry experts.

The winners will be revealed at a star-studded ceremony, hosted by popular TV presenter Mark Durden-Smith, in June at Chester Racecourse.

Winners of a number of categories will automatically qualify for this year’s England’s Northwest Tourism Awards, organised by the NWDA. If successful, they may go on to take part in the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence.

The VCC Annual Awards were launched in 2004 to celebrate excellence, achievement and innovation within the visitor economy.

This year’s awards are supported by the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), Trinity Mirror and Virgin Trains.