VisitEngland has named the popular BBC 1 TV series Countryfile, as the winner of this year’s prestigious Outstanding Contribution to Tourism award. The winner was revealed at its annual Awards for Excellence ceremony, held last night at the Winter Gardens, Blackpool during English Tourism Week.
Accepting the award on behalf of Countryfile were presenters John Craven and Adam Henson, alongside the Series Producer and members of the production team. The VisitEngland Board awarded the accolade for the programme’s contribution to raising awareness of England’s rural tourism offer.
Sally Balcombe, Chief Executive VistEngland and VisitBritain said: “BBC’s Countryfile regularly features stunning rural and coastal landscapes which inspire viewers both here and abroad. Through the series, millions of viewers are introduced to the beauty and diversity of England’s countryside and destinations. In doing so the programme positively influences perceptions of England and its attractiveness for tourism, making a vital contribution to the sector, encouraging the viewing public to book holidays to the scenic places they see in the show.”
Joanna Brame, Countryfile Series Producer accepting the award on their behalf said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be accepting this award on behalf the Countryfile team. We are frequently told by viewers that they have been inspired to book a break to a particular part of the country which has featured on the show. It is wonderful therefore that the show has been honoured with an Outstanding Contribution to tourism award. The team work incredibly hard to produce the series and I know that they will be as immensely proud of this award as I am.”The Outstanding Contribution to Tourism award celebrates excellence and is judged by the VisitEngland board. Previous recipients have included The Great English Pub, The Travel Agent, Michael Eavis CBE, HM The Queen, the Harry Potter films, Sir Cameron Mackintosh, Sir Paul McCartney, Liverpool, The National Trust, the English Garden, the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games Makers and last year the Chefs of England.
