Jun 022017
 

Portsoy’s Sail Loft Bunkhouse. Review and photographs by Duncan Harley.

When newspaper columnist Cuthbert Graham wrote about Portsoy, way back in 1963, he commented that the town was one of the most progressive communities on the Moray Firth.
In his travel column, This is My Country, he wrote about the “triumphant success” of the town’s efforts to encourage tourism.

He was quite correct and the town, nowadays a bustling coastal resort and popular stopover on the 6200km-long North Sea Cycle Route, has steadfastly continued to pursue a policy of encouraging community run tourist orientated enterprise.

Alongside attending the hugely successful Portsoy Boat Festival visitors can take part in traditional music and dance workshops at the Salmon Bothy and boatbuilding courses at the Boatshed. Tourism in the town received a welcome extra boost when film makers chose Portsoy as a location for the recent remake of the Ealing comedy Whisky Galore.

Alongside leads Eddie Izzard and Gregor Fisher, many locals appear as extras in the film and at the recent Portsoy Premiere, held in the loft-space of the Salmon Bothy, film-goers were encouraged to get into the spirit of the performance and dip into some whisky-flavoured ice cream. Publicists had, after all, promoted Portsoy’s Whisky Galore connection by nicknaming the town The Village of the Drammed!

Visitor accommodation in the town received a boost this year with the opening of the newly renovated Sail Loft Bunkhouse. Situated on the Back Green near the caravan park, the Sail Loft has had a long and varied history.

Formerly a sail making factory, the Category B listed building dates from the 18th Century and sits within a former industrial site used for the processing of flax and the manufacture of rope. When the demand for sails declined and the rope-works closed the Sail Loft buildings gradually fell into ruin.

In 2006 the North East Scotland Preservation Trust acquired the property from the Seafield Estate and work began to bring the derelict structure into productive use as bunkhouse accommodation for visitors to Portsoy. After 11 years of planning and renovation, the keys to the building were formally handed over to Portsoy Community Enterprise in January 2017. Additional loan funding came via the Architectural Heritage Fund.

Offering high quality self-catering accommodation at reasonable rates, the new 25 bed facility offers visitors to Portsoy a unique hub from which to explore the Moray coastline.  Facilities Assistant Susan Rayne explains:

“Users so far have included cyclists, walkers and families. This weekend we even have a group of divers staying with us.”

Susan is one of a team of three involved in the day to day management of the Sail Loft and is by all accounts fully integrated into the local community.

Alongside her bunkhouse duties she serves as a volunteer fire-fighter and is a keen member of the local women’s rowing group, the Portsoy Skiffettes. Another claim to fame is her role as official chauffeur to Whisky Galore star Eddie Izzard during the location shooting of the movie in Portsoy.

“The buzz in the town was just amazing” she recalls

“Eddie Izzard was very open with the locals and was really interested in finding out about the area.”

It emerged that Eddie was due to perform at Versailles after the Whisky Galore shoot and  Susan recalls that he was amazed to discover that fireplaces in the Palace of Versailles are rumoured to be faced with Portsoy Marble.

Although the Sail Loft is clearly bunkhouse in nature, the new facility offers up-market self-catering accommodation. Guest rooms are simply but pleasantly furnished with white décor throughout. Named after local landmarks, the room plan reads like a who’s who of the Portsoy coastline. Red Rock, The Pointie and The Breeks are just a few. On our visit we stayed in The Dounie.

The design of the building does not allow for panoramic views of the sea but the slanted Velux windows do let in both the sound and the smells of the ocean and provide a welcome change to the typical hotel room hum of the air-conditioning unit. Those wanting to check out the view should either nip outside or, heaven forbid if you are female, check out cubicle three in the downstairs men’s showers where you can view the bay in all of its glory.

Catering-wise, the open-plan kitchen and dining area is more than adequate. Two 4 ring hobs are complimented by micro-waves, kettles and an ample supply of toasters. Pots and pans, dishes and cutlery are all provided and the only onus on residents is to leave the kitchen as you might wish to find it. I was pleasantly surprised to come across an orphaned cafetiere abandoned by a previous guest and made full use of it.

The Sail Loft lounge boasts a wood burning stove and is perfect for family get-togethers or business seminars.  Alongside a video-projector there are lots of local books, toys and games to keep everyone entertained in the evenings. A drying room, secure cycle storage, a fully equipped laundrette and an outside wash down area for boots or bicycle cleaning complete the line-up and this VisitScotland 4 star hostel even boasts a wood fired hot-tub.

On the night of our stay a group of divers were firmly ensconced in front of the roaring wood-stove planning the next days dive while a group of teachers enjoyed the warmth of the outdoor hot-tub.

All in all this new facility ticks the boxes although it would have been nice to have the option of sitting behind glass while taking in the sea view. But, as I said previously, there’s always cubicle three in the men’s showers!

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May 252017
 

Scott Findlay, Managing Director at CFF Contractors who have been awarded a £1.4m contract.

With thanks to Karen Stewart.

Local developer LOJJ Scotland has awarded a £1.4 million contract for the development of Loch Street property to local firm CFF Contractors.
The 30 bedroom student accommodation development is due for completion this year and will provide much needed accommodation in the heart of Aberdeen city centre.

LOJJ Scotland who have a number of other developments in the area is run by Aberdeen local Alana Stott who is passionate about supporting the local economy and fellow businesses.

Alana said:

“Having worked with CFF Contractors previously we are delighted to award them this contract; knowing their workmanship and reliability made choosing them an easy decision”.

Scott Findlay, Managing Director at CFF Contractors said:

“it’s a pleasure to be working with LOJJ Scotland on this exciting project”

“Aberdeen has seen more than its fair share of challenges recently so it’s great to see new developments taking place which will have a positive impact on the city and surrounding areas.”

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Apr 282017
 

With thanks to Ross Anderson, Senior Account Manager, Citrus:Mix

Construction work has begun on a £16 million student accommodation development in Aberdeen.
Focused on sustainability and technology this next generation of student accommodation will meet the needs of the newest university generation.

The development, is located on the former tyre depot at the corner of Willowbank Road and Hardgate, will serve both Robert Gordon University (RGU) and the University of Aberdeen, benefiting from good public transport links and close proximity to the city centre.

Carlisle-based Northern Developments has started work on a 222 en-suite student bedroom scheme which received planning consent in 2016.

Northern Developments has delivered more than 1,000 student beds across the North of England and bring 32 years’ experience in design and build delivery. This experience is reflected in the focus on sustainability of the building and ensuring that the experience of the students living in it will be of the highest quality.

Aberdeenshire sub-contractor Andrew Cowie Ltd has started groundworks on the site and the project will be complete in the summer of 2018 for September arrivals.

Eddie Ward, commercial manager for Northern Developments, said:

“We are very pleased to have started work on the Willowbank Road site and look forward to delivering this exciting development.

“It will meet the demands of modern student living in every respect and will be very appealing to the millennial generation who quite rightly expect high standards and the latest technology to suit their technological and educational needs.

“As a business we strive to use a local supply chain to both deliver the best in class development but to also support a local economy such as that in Aberdeen.”

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Apr 232015
 

With thanks to Beverly Tricker.

Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association launches new tourism awards at Dunnottar CastleAberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards (ACSTA) will return for an encore performance this year so that operators can fly the flag for the local area in Scotland’s national tourism accolades.
Those who pick up honours at ACSTA later this year will represent the north east at the Scottish Thistle Tourism Awards 2016, at which the nation’s best will be recognised.

ACSTA held its annual awards dinner in January this year but in order to meet the timeframe for next year’s Scottish Thistle Awards, another ceremony will take place on November 27th, 2015. Entries are now open for 14 different categories.

All of the categories are aligned with the Scottish Thistle Awards, and this year there will be new sections, including Tourism – Everyone’s Business, which is open to any organisation, from community groups and destination management bodies to transport providers and retail venues, that inspire best practice when it comes to looking after visitors.

Another new category is Hospitality Hero which is open anyone working on the front line and who is dedicated to providing a special experience to visitors.

The awards are once again being supported by the Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association, which is appealing for businesses of all sizes to submit entry forms and show the high quality tourism offering in the area.

The launch coincides with the arrival of the VisitScotland Expo – a business to business travel trade event – in Aberdeen this week. The event at Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre will attract hundreds of international delegates.

ACSTA chairman Iain Watson says,

“With such a huge week for tourism in the north east we felt that it would be a very appropriate time to open ACSTA up for entries. Hundreds of delegates from all over the world will be attending Expo and seeing for themselves what this part of Scotland has to offer.

“We are in an unusual position of holding two awards ceremonies within a 12 month period, but we felt it was essential that we took steps to align ourselves with the Scottish Thistle Awards.

“This means that all of our winners will become regional winners of the Scottish Thistle Awards, and will go on to compete in the national final. They will be up against other tourism operators from all over Scotland, and will show the exceptionally high quality of what we have to offer here in the north east.

“We have had a fantastic response to ACSTA over the past two years, and I sincerely hope that individuals and businesses will continue to support an event that has fast become one of the key dates in the hospitality sector calendar.

“We urge them to get their entries in as soon as possible, and help us to show the rest of Scotland that we are in a league of our own when it comes to looking after our visitors.”

Entries for ACSTA will open at www.acsta.co.uk are now and will close on June 19, 2015. Three entries will be shortlisted for each category and the winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Ardoe House Hotel and Spa in Aberdeen on November 27, 2015.

The full list of awards categories is:

• Tourism – Everyone’s Business

• Best Informal Eating Experience

• Best Event/Festival

• Innovation Award

• Friendliest Pub/Bar

• Best Visitor Attraction

• Most Hospitable B&B Guest House

• Best Restaurant Experience

• Best Holiday Accommodation

• Most Hospitable Hotel

• Young Ambassador Award

• Ambassador

• Best Outdoor/Adventure Experience

• Hospitality Hero

Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association represents 46 independently operated hotels and conference venues. These hotels provide around 4,000 bedrooms in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. The Association is committed to improving the quality and standard of hotel services and to furthering the overall standards of excellence and hospitality within the region.

Mar 202015
 

Christian Allard MSP for the North East of ScotlandfeatWith thanks to Gavin Mowat. 

SNP MSP Christian Allard has welcomed the decision by Aberdeenshire Council to back proposals for four traveller sites across the North East. Mr Allard, who is a member of the Scottish Parliament’s Equal Opportunities Committee, called it a positive step in the right direction.

Aberdeenshire Councillors, last Thursday 12 March, agreed to creating the four official sites – although no specific locations have been allocated at this stage.

Christian Allard MSP recently visited Clinterty Travelling Persons Site to better understand the challenges faced in the North East and he said the Scottish Parliament is aware of these challenges.

Through his work with the Equal Opportunities Committee, Christian Allard pressed the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Communities and Pensioners’ Rights, Alex Neil MSP on a need for traveller sites for the North East. The SNP MSP also invited Mr Neil to come to Grampian and visit existing Gypsy Travellers sites.

Commenting, North East MSP Christian Allard said:

“I am delighted that Aberdeenshire Council has come together to agree this proposal for traveller sites – as SNP Group Leader, Councillor Hamish Vernal said it is a necessary step in the right direction.

“Developing a proper strategy will ensure travellers have suitable facilities and make it easier to intervene with unauthorised sites.

“Having adequate amenities for travellers is very important for the people of the North East and I am glad progress is now being made.”

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Mar 052015
 

Christian Allard and Debbie MRRWith thanks to Gavin Mowat.

SNP MSP Christian Allard has signed up to Shelter Scotland’s ‘Make Renting Right’ campaign which calls for a renting sector that works both for people who live in rented housing and landlords who rent out their properties.

The Make Renting Right campaign seeks to improve the growing and changing private rented sector to make sure it is a safe, secure and stable housing option.

312,000 households in Scotland now live in the private rented sector, which is 13 per cent of all households.

The number of families with children has more than doubled in the last ten years, with 80,000 children now living in private rented accommodation.

Mr Allard and other signatories of the Make Renting Right campaign are asking for: Stability for people wanting to make rented housing their home; flexibility for people to stay in their home as long as they need to; a modern tenancy that gives security and flexibility for tenants AND landlords; a fair system for sorting out renting problems when they occur; predictable rents for tenants and landlords.

Commenting, Christian Allard MSP said:

“I am happy to have signed up to this campaign – fair renting for both the tenant and the landlord is an important priority.

“Here in the North East there is a vibrant private renting market which should be fair, flexible and suitable for everyone involved.

“That is why I am delighted to have the opportunity to support Shelter Scotland’s Make Renting Right Campaign.”

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Oct 242014
 

In the fourth of a controversial 52 part series Duncan Harley and Janice Catto take cognisance of the political comments on a wall near you.

polphail 2 duncan harleyWall art is not entirely about puerile penile fantasies and homophobia. Much of the creativity implies a need to be heard and a desire to communicate to an adult world.
The graphic sexual images, rudely erotic comments and insulting narrative may in essence be a cover for the need to be understood or indeed misunderstood.

“FUCK HITLER” when sprayed on a 1960’s damp concrete multi storey edifice may in reality be a subversive comment regarding planning policies.

“Mo Mo is Fat” when painted on a fast food outlet door is open to wide interpretation. Is Mo Mo fat because the business owners don’t care about the hydrogenated fat content of the burgers on sale? Or is this simply a meditative Buddhist take on the perception of a reality near you. Try reversing the text.

The east coast oil boom came to Aberdeen some 40 odd years ago and the effects are still resonating. Fast wealth, fast drugs, fast cars and some extremely fast ladies abound. Stories of rags to riches and of course success to poverty abound.

For the Hamish tagged westerners it was a wee bit different. Think poor disempowered fisher folk, betrayed crofters and the stealing of sheep.

Portivadie is a prime example. The Loch Fyne village consisting of some cottagers, a family run farm and around a dozen summer-time holiday hutters was bought over by a government agency in the 1960’s.

Intent on building oil rigs for oil hungry klondikers, the devil may care career civil servants offered householders a deal. Get out or get forced out was the message.

Keen to exploit the black gold, the UK government of the day with the complete compliance of the Scottish Office focused on a site which was intended to become an oil rig construction facility.

Despite extensive work costing the nation millions, the white elephant of Portivadie was never used for its intended purpose. In a moment of unmitigated madness, planners employed outdated thinking to an industry which they completely misunderstood. The assumption was that oil rigs should be constructed from the re-enforced concrete despite the industry’s total reliance on state of the art steel built drill platforms.

Shorelines were torn up, local folk were offered compensation for dwellings owned by generations and buildings were bulldozed. Local landmarks such as the Watch Rock were blown up and Pictish stones were thrown into the Loch Fyne.

No rigs were ever constructed or even ordered from the Portivadie facility and the construction site now functions as a marina.

Ironically the Civil Service blunder’s continued as Hansard (03 February 1981 vol 998 cc147-54) records:

“ £3.3 million of public money” was used “ due to an omission, an error, a blunder—call it what you may—by either the Scottish Office or the Department of Energy, or both, the ownership of the village passed to a company called Sea Platform Constructors (Scotland) Ltd. because the Department or Departments failed to buy the land from it. Under the provisions of Scottish law, the ownership of the village passed to the private owners of the land on which the village was sited.”

polphail 6 duncan harley The workers accommodation village built for the failed project still stands.It is full of bats plus the detritus of decades of neglect.

In October 2009, a group of six graffiti artists decided to paint the place.

Armed with a few dozen gallons of paint plus some long ladders, they transformed the derelict concrete village from a grey Stalinist concrete workers gulag into a point of contention.

The street artist combine “Agents of Change” consisting of Derm, Rough, Timid, Stormy, System and Juice126 initially contacted the site owner Alan Bradley to ask permission to re-decorate Polphail in a street-wise way.

Alan replied:

 “as long as you’re insured and you protect yourselves – go for it, guys!”

The results are stunning.

We visited in rain but were completely bowled over since the graphics occupy entire walls. Rarely are there any words and most of these are in good humour.

There are no “WANK IF YOU LIKE ME” comments here. The most contentious phrase might be “HAPPY BIRTHDAY SPARKAY” however we failed to penetrate the innermost sanctum due to deep puddles and a few dead sheep.

In June 2012 the workers village at Polphail was put up for sale. Word is however that it’s status as an Argyll Heritage habitat for bats may prevent demolition.

In June 2010, Glasgow photographer Brian Cumming visited the site to document the change since the arts project. His findings were that not much had changed:

“Polphail is still very much derelict with not much having happened over the last few years, it still really is a dark and gloomy mysterious yet fascinating place, especially for creative people such as myself.”

Watch Brian’s video on Polphail

Our graffiti Flikr page is at https://www.flickr.com/photos/duncanharley/sets/72157648822962775/ and we will add to it from time to time.

Yours creatively, Duncan and Janice.
Next time we will be looking at some Tibetan roadside wall art on the Gonggar to Lhasa highway.

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Oct 172014
 

With thanks to Eoin Smith, Tricker PR.

Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association launches new tourism awards at Dunnottar CastlefeatTwo distilleries, a fish and chip shop and a colourful display of dolphin sculptures are among those announced as finalists in the 2015 Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards (ACSTA) today (October 15, 2014). Entrants in 14 different categories now face an anxious wait until January 30 next year to learn if they will be crowned winners.

There was a 25% increase in the number of entries received by the awards scheme, which is organised by the Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association (ACSHA). It took place for the first time earlier this year.

Two additional categories were also introduced and the sections are now aligned with the national VisitScotland-backed scheme, The Scottish Thistle Awards. It is intended that ACSTA will become adopted as the regional final for the Scottish Thistle Awards by 2016.

ACSTA chairman Iain Watson says the level of interest took organisers by surprise. He commented:

“From the moment we opened for entries in July, there was a steady stream of nominations coming in. Overall we were 25% up on the number of nominations received last year and while we have two additional categories, the increase was seen across the board.

“We have received entries from many of the operators who took part in our inaugural awards in 2014, but also many new faces who are taking part for the first time. It is clear that operators across the city and shire have been inspired by the 2014 event and recognise that this is an opportunity for them to shine.

“I can honestly say that every single facet of the tourism industry is represented in this awards scheme, from small one-man operators through to large multi-national organisations. And that is the wonderful thing about ACSTA – there is a place for everyone at the table.

“This is not about rewarding the organisation that has the most budget or manpower at its disposal: the awards are about recognising operators and individuals who make a real difference to the visitor experience and who are dedicated to ensuring that customers, whether they are here for business or leisure, leave with a first rate impression of what we have to offer.”

Contenders in one of the most hotly contended categories – Most Hospitable Hotel – are this year’s winner Meldrum House, Oldmeldrum; Holiday Inn West Aberdeen; and Tor-na-Coille, Banchory.

Calum Richardson from The Bay Fish and Chips in Stonehaven, who was a finalist in the Ambassador category in 2014, has once again made the shortlist, along with tour guide Pam Wells and Stephen Gow, the general manager of the Thistle hotel group in Scotland.

Final judging will take place before the end of the year and winners will be announced at a ceremony at Ardoe House Hotel and Spa in Aberdeen on January 30, 2015. Host for the evening will be broadcaster Tam Cowan. Further information about the awards is available at www.acsta.co.uk

The shortlisted nominees in all categories are:

Our Warmest Welcome – Holiday Inn Aberdeen West; The Jays Guest House, Aberdeen; Ardoe House Hotel and Spa, Aberdeen.

Best Informal Eating Experience – The Bay Fish and Chips, Stonehaven; Buchanan Foods Ltd, Banchory; The Mariner Hotel Ltd, Aberdeen.

Best Event or Festival – Run Balmoral; Bon Accord Steam Engine Club; Wild in Art for Wild Dolphins.

Green Tourism – Holiday Inn Express City Centre, Aberdeen; The Bay Fish and Chips; Mains of Scotstown, Aberdeen.

Creative Ambition – Glen Tanar Estate, Aboyne; Thistle Aberdeen Airport Hotel; Visit Royal Deeside.

Friendliest Pub/Bar – Orchid, Aberdeen; The New Inn, Ellon; The Illicit Still, Aberdeen.

Best Visitor Attraction – Glen Garioch Distillery, Oldmeldrum; World Horse Welfare, Aboyne; Glen Dronach Distillery, near Huntly.

Most Hospitable Guest House – Durn House, Portsoy; Struan Hall Guest House, Aboyne; Glendavan House, Aboyne.

Best Restaurant Experience – Ardoe House Hotel and Spa; Banchory Lodge Hotel; Atlantis Restaurant, Aberdeen.

Best Holiday Accommodation – Ythan Valley Campsite and Little Lodge; High Seas Hobbit, Rosehearty.

Community Involvement Award – Aberdeen Performing Arts; Marriott, Aberdeen; Park Inn by Radisson, Aberdeen.

Most Hospitable Hotel – Meldrum House Country Hotel, Oldmeldrum; Holiday Inn Aberdeen West; Tor-na-Coille Hotel, Banchory.

Young Ambassador – Stuart McPhee, Harding Ltd, Aberdeen; Adelle Chessor, VisitAberdeen; Craig McDonald, Glen Tanar Estate.

Ambassador – Calum Richardson, The Bay Fish and Chips; Pam Wells, Pam Wells Ltd; Stephen Gow,Thistle Aberdeen Altens Hotel.

Sep 122014
 

Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association launches new tourism awards at Dunnottar CastleWith thanks to Eoin Smith, Tricker PR

The competition is heating up as entries start to roll in for an awards scheme which will celebrate the region’s top tourism providers. Dozens of businesses and individuals have already entered the Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards (ACSTA), however there is still time for tourism providers to apply.

With the number of categories increased to 14 from 12 and a new alignment with the national industry awards scheme, the Scottish Thistle Awards, there are now more opportunities than ever for those working in the tourism sector to be recognised for their work.

Awards organiser Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association is looking for entries from operators which show how they go the extra mile for their customers, providing an unforgettable experience for all those visiting the region.

ACSTA chairman Iain Watson says:

“We are delighted with the response we have had so far, and welcome all tourism operators in Aberdeen and the surrounding area to apply and show what they are doing to give their customers unparalleled service.

“There are some incredible tourism businesses in the north east of Scotland, as shown by the outstanding response to our inaugural awards earlier this year, and this is their chance to showcase what they do.

“There are a couple of brand new categories this year, including best festival or event and a section specifically for B&B and guest house operators, so there is now an opportunity for everyone across all sectors to shine. These awards are all about celebrating the tourism industry – a sector which contributes millions of pounds to the local economy every year.

“Not only do we want to shout about our success and the quality of our guest experience as a region, but also give the opportunity for individuals to shine. I know that winners announced at our inaugural event have all benefitted from the positive publicity which surrounded their wins.”

Entries for ACSTA are now open at www.acsta.co.uk and will close on September 23. Three entries will be shortlisted for each category and the winners will be announced at a ceremony at Mercure Ardoe House in Aberdeen on January 30, 2015.

The full list of awards categories is:

  • Most Hospitable Hotel
  • Most Hospitable B&B/Guest House
  • Best Holiday Accommodation
  • Best Informal Eating Experience
  • Best Restaurant Experience
  • Friendliest Pub/Bar
  • Best Event or Festival
  • Our Warmest Welcome (customer service award)
  • Best Visitor Attraction
  • Creative Ambition
  • Young Ambassador Award
  • Ambassador
  • Community Involvement
  • Green Tourism

A lifetime achievement award may also be presented at the discretion of the awards organising committee. Further information about the entry requirements for each category is available at www.acsta.co.uk

Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association represents 46 independently operated hotels and conference venues. These hotels provide around 4,000 bedrooms in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. The Association is committed to improving the quality and standard of hotel services and to furthering the overall standards of excellence and hospitality within the region.

Jul 042014
 

With thanks to Eoin Smith, Senior Account Executive, Tricker PR.

Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association launches new tourism awards at Dunnottar CastleAn awards scheme that recognises exceptional tourism operators in the North East is returning for a second year, with even more opportunities to win.
The number of categories in the Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards (ACSTA) has been increased to 14 from 12 and the categories have been aligned to the national industry scheme, the Scottish Thistle Awards.

Awards organiser Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association (ACSHA) is appealing to businesses and individuals to enter and show how they do their bit to ensure visitors return home with fond memories of their time in the region.

ACSTA chairman Iain Watson says he hopes operators will respond to the call for entries. He adds:

“The number of entrants to the inaugural awards last year took us all by surprise, as did the quality of the entries received.

“It left us in no doubt that there are some truly exceptional businesses and individuals making positive differences to the quality of the visitor experience, and that we should be doing all we can to encourage them and other like-minded operators.

“Many of those who won and who were shortlisted across the various categories earlier this year are already telling us that the exposure and endorsement has had a positive impact on their business. I would urge everyone to go online and visit the awards website: there are categories recognising everything from hotels and guest houses, to bars and festivals.

“We have aligned many of our categories to the Scottish Thistle Awards and it is our intention that ACSTA will become the North East regional heat of this national scheme by 2016.”

Entries for ACSTA are now open at www.acsta.co.uk  and will close on September 16. Three entries will be shortlisted for each category and the winners will be announced at a ceremony at Mercure Ardoe House in Aberdeen on January 30, 2015.

The full list of awards categories is:

  • Most Hospitable Hotel
  • Most Hospitable B&B/Guest House
  • Best Holiday Accommodation
  • Best Informal Eating Experience
  • Best Restaurant Experience
  • Friendliest Pub/Bar
  • Best Event or Festival
  • Our Warmest Welcome (customer service award)
  • Best Visitor Attraction
  • Creative Ambition
  • Young Ambassador Award
  • Ambassador
  • Community Involvement
  • Green Tourism

A lifetime achievement award may also be presented at the discretion of the awards organising committee. Further information about the entry requirements for each category is available at www.acsta.co.uk

Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association represents 46 independently-operated hotels and conference venues. These hotels provide around 4,000 bedrooms in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. The Association is committed to improving the quality and standard of hotel services and to furthering the overall standards of excellence and hospitality within the region.