WEST Devon attractions scored highly among the best of the region this week at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards 2010-2011.

On Monday night three West Devon tourism businesses were recognised as some of the best in the region at the awards ceremony in Torquay.

Woodovis Park in Gulworthy received silver for the Holiday Park of the Year Award, Castle Drogo in Drewsteignton gained silver in the Large Attraction Award, and Wheatland Farm in Winkleigh gained bronze in the Sustainable Tourism Award.

The awards were presented by journalist and broadcaster Declan Curry, best known for presenting the business on BBC Breakfast and hosting BBC's Working Lunch business programme.

Owners of Woodovis Park, John and Dorothy Lewis, snapped up silver in the awards for the second year running.

John Lewis said: 'We are incredibly proud to receive recognition for all the hard work the team has contributed over the past year.

'We know that Woodovis Park offers a greener, welcoming and safe environment in a stunning setting, but it's fantastic to get this acknowledgement that we're one of the best!'

The South West Tourism Excellence Awards, in association with South West Water and Blue Chip Holidays, celebrate the 'best in the south west' and aim to promote and reward the leading businesses and individuals in the tourism industry.

Alistair Handyside, chairman of South West Tourism, said: 'I am absolutely delighted with not only the standard of entries, but also the calibre, dedication and passion for quality of our winners — the tourism industry of the South West goes from strength to strength.

'Each year, we showcase what is truly excellent about our visitor economy and we celebrate success – in customer service and experience and our industry in general.'