TOURISM businesses across West Devon are being encouraged to promote and celebrate their achievements and quality by entering the Devon Tourism Awards 2013.

The awards shine a spotlight on what makes Devon such a perfect place to visit and celebrate the industry's passion for excellence.

They are open to all sectors of the industry across Devon, including accommodation, attractions, events, activity providers and places to eat and drink.

Visit Devon chairman, Carolyn Custerson, said: 'It's more crucial than ever before that we celebrate and promote the best that Devon has to offer visitors.

'The Devon Tourism Awards play a key role in rewarding the vision, talent and hard work of the local tourism industry.

'They also highlight the contribution made towards key issues such as sustainability, accessibility and staff training and development.

'The updated categories mean there is something for every tourism related business and we hope 2013 is a record year for entries.'  

The launch of the Devon Tourism Awards coincides with the Cornwall and South West awards and comes fresh from the county's outstanding success in this year's national VisitEngland awards, when Devon businesses picked up five national awards.

Winners from the Devon awards will be fast-tracked into the South West awards, with South West winners submitted to the national VisitEngland awards. Entry is free, the programmes being funded by a range of sponsors and partners, and all entrants receive feedback.

The deadline for entering is 5pm on Thursday, June 21.  

Full details of the tourism awards, along with details of how to enter, top tips and entry forms are at http://www.devontourismawards.co.uk">www.devontourismawards.co.uk