Island businesses recognised in the Beautiful South awards

A number of Island businesses were awarded with trophies at the Beautiful South awards which were held at The Grand Hotel in Brighton on April 25.

East Afton Farmhouse, at Tapnell Farm, shared Gold in the Wedding Venue of the Year category. In the Glamping Business of the Year award, Tom’s Eco Lodge at Tapnell Farm was awarded Silver with Sibbecks Farm in Whitwell commended in the same category.

Hovertravel were recognised for their off-Island patient transfer service in the Resilience and Innovation award, winning Silver. Neil Chapman, managing director at Hovertravel, said: “Being recognised by these prestigious awards for our community-focussed Island Rescue service is very rewarding for all those involved in getting the project started and keeping it operating.

“This rapid off-Island transfer of stretcher patients would not have been possible without the expert assistance of Griffon Hoverwork, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and our own engineers, all of whom worked alongside our pilots, our operational teams, the IW Ambulance Service and the IW NHS Trust to create a service which helps save lives.”

Haviland Cottage in Ventnor, was commended as Dog Friendly Business of the Year, and Wightlink was awarded Bronze in the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism award.

Will Myles, MD at Visit of Wight, said: “The Beautiful South awards are the pinnacle of tourism excellence for businesses operating in the South of England. It is fantastic to see once again Island businesses performing so well, which just goes to show the amazing breadth of quality tourism products that our visitors can experience time and time again. Well done to all of the entrants and winners.”