As Scotland’s tourism ‘Oscars’ get set to mark their 25th anniversary, people in Ayrshire & Arran are being urged to help ensure the region’s industry stars are celebrated as part of the ‘silver’ celebrations.

With the nominations deadline for The Scottish Thistle Awards 2017-2018 fast approaching on Friday 23 June, there’s no time to waste in putting forward Ayrshire & Arran’s finest for some well-deserved recognition.

Over the past 25 years, over 350 national winners have been crowned in the prestigious awards – each demonstrating success, innovation and excellence in Scottish tourism and hospitality.

Nominations can be made across 16 different Scottish Thistle Awards categories. In celebration of the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology 2017, a new category Best Heritage Tourism Experience Award – has been introduced. Sponsored by Historic Environment Scotland, this will honour those who excel in bringing to life Scotland’s rich history, heritage and traditions.

The 16 awards categories are: Fishers - Most Hospitable Hotel, Most Hospitable B&B/Guest House, Best Accommodation Provider, Historic Environment Scotland – Best Heritage Tourism Experience, Innovation in Tourism, Best Informal Eating Experience, Best Restaurant Experience, Best Pub/Bar, Regional Ambassador, Best Cultural Event or Festival, Best Sporting Event, Best Outdoor/Adventure Experience, HIT Scotland Regional Rising Star, Working Together for Tourism, Best Visitor Attraction and Tourism & Hospitality Hero

Anyone can nominate businesses, events or people whom they feel deserve recognition. Nominations can be made until Friday 23 June at www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk Nominees then have until Friday 30 June to submit their entries.

Entries will be judged by a panel of industry experts and shortlisted Ayrshire & Arran entries will go head-to-head at the West regional finals ceremony in November. Winners from that will then go on to represent the region in the glittering national Scottish Thistle Awards final held next year.

The Scottish Thistle Awards are led by a panel of industry experts from several organisations including VisitScotland, Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards, Highlands & Islands Tourism Awards, the Hospitality Industry Trust Scotland, Scotland Food and Drink, Scottish Tourism Alliance, the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, sportscotland and Wild Scotland.