After much anticipation the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Award winners were announced at an awards ceremony on Thursday 1 December at The Winter Gardens, Weston Super Mare. The evening of celebrating excellence in tourism and hospitality across the fantastic region was attended by more than fifty finalists and the award sponsors.
This prestigious black-tie ceremony was hosted by broadcaster and presenter Laura Rawlings and former professional cricketer, PGA golf professional and Weston resident Peter Trego. Every business took to the stage to be presented with their award to shouts of delight and appreciation.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm was proud to win not one but three of the prestigious awards. A Silver Award for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, a Gold Award for Age Friendly business and finally a Gold Award for Accessible and Inclusive Tourism.
This is not the first time the zoo has won awards for its Accessible and Inclusive efforts. Noah’s Ark is hugely devoted to its accessibility programme. In recent years they have installed a Changing Places toilet complete with hoist and changing bed as well as improving their car park to make it more accessible to wheelchair users. The Noah’s Ark Team have also undertaken training in Autism, mental health awareness and British Sign Language.
Larry Bush, Managing Director, said “We are absolutely thrilled to have received these awards which highlight the dedication of our talented and hard-working team. It’s a huge honour to be recognised for our progress as an inclusive and accessible zoo and as a popular large visitor attraction in North Somerset.”
A new award for Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm was the Gold Age Friendly award, sponsored by Age UK Somerset. In recent years the zoo has worked to support older visitors and members of the local community with special events, additional seating and with outreach to local care homes. This December (1 - 21 December) the Zoo is even offering free entry to over 70’s inspired by Age UK’s campaign to prevent loneliness at Christmas time for older people. As part of the over 70’s go free offer, visitors are welcome to enjoy the whole zoo as well as a warm space in the café. The farm kitchen chefs have created a special menu of winter warmers including soups and local lamb stews.
Rhian, Brand and Engagement manager said “It is fantastic to be recognised for our efforts in inclusion and accessibility as well as our work beyond the zoo in our local community. Congratulations to all the winners from the awards, it is great to be part of such a diverse and exciting region bringing happiness to so many visitors!”
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