Tourism Superstar Rewarded with Dream Holiday

Red Funnel’s Dancing Man, Jim O’Reilly is the winner of VisitEngland’s 2018 Tourism Superstar Award. The announcement was made in the Daily Mirror on Saturday 24th where it was revealed that Jim had received an incredible 64% of the record 20,642 votes cast by members of the public.

The Award recognises and celebrates people in the tourism industry who go the extra mile to ensure tourists in England have an unforgettable visitor experience. Nominees had to be passionate about where they work and the places they live and consistently set a high standard of service in England’s tourism industry. Visit Isle of Wight, the Island’s destination marketing organisation nominated Jim who is a Cowes resident for engaging with and delighting visitors at the start and end of their ferry trip to the Isle of Wight.

As a thank you for his outstanding customer service, Red Funnel today rewarded Jim with a £5,000 dream family holiday to any destination of his choice.

‘Dancing Man’, Jim O’Reilly said: “I can’t believe I’ve actually won, it’s such an amazing feeling! I’m so grateful for all the support and would like to thank every single person who was kind enough to vote for me. Hopefully I will be able to thank many people in person when they travel this Easter.”

Kevin George, Red Funnel’s Chairman and CEO commented: “Jim’s legendary dance moves have been delighting our customers for the last two years and we are absolutely delighted he’s now won VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar Award. We are grateful to Visit Isle of Wight for nominating him and we’d like to thank all of Jim’s fans for their support. Red Funnel is proud of its award-winning customer service and Jim is part of an amazing front line team who take great pride in exceeding the expectations of the travelling public.”

Will Myles, MD of Visit Isle of Wight said: “Isn’t it amazing that Jim O’Reilly, the dancing man from Red Funnel has won the VisitEngland, Daily Mirror Tourism Superstar. I just wish I could bottle half of what he’s got and give it round to everyone!”

Jim will be presented with his Tourism Superstar Award at VisitEngland’s 2018 Awards for Excellence in Bath on 23 April.

For more information about Jim please follow #dancingjim