GOLD AWARD: Andrew Milnes receives the tourism award for Brunswick House B&B from South Tyneside mayor Ken Stephenson and BBC radio presenter Alfie Joey
GOLD AWARD: Andrew Milnes receives the tourism award for Brunswick House B&B from South Tyneside mayor Ken Stephenson and BBC radio presenter Alfie Joey

A DALE caravan park and a B&B complex at Middleton-in-Teesdale were among the successful businesses at the North East Tourism Awards, held at Newcastle Civic Centre last week.

Doe Park Caravan Park, near Cotherstone, was named the gold winner in the Holiday Village of the year category.

Brunswick House, in Middleton, also struck gold in the B&B of the year section.

The caravan site at Doe Park was started more than 30 years ago by Keith and Muriel Lamb.

The park and farm is now run by Mr and Mrs Lamb’s son Stephen and his wife Alison.

Unfortunately due to farming commitments and the imminent arrival of a calf, they were unable to attend the presentation.

Brunswick House has been run by Andrew and Sheila Milnes since 1989 and holds a four star rating from Visit England.

Mr Milnes said it was the first time the B&B had entered the awards.

“We were surprised and delighted to win gold.

“We are delighted to be recognised as not only being one of the best bed and breakfasts in Teesdale but also throughout the region.

The awards, which were handed out by BBC Radio Newcastle’s breakfast show presenter Alfie Joey, are organised by Newcastle Gateshead Initiative with the north East Tourism Alliance.

Sarah Stewart, chief executive at the NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: “This year we received a record number of applications and all the categories were tightly contested.

“From our thriving city centres through to our beautiful coastline and stunning countryside, the tourism sector in the North East continues to flourish and grow.

“Next year, among other events, we will welcome the World Transplant Games and European professional club rugby finals to the region.”