Tourism businesses from across the region were back together for the first time post-pandemic for the North East Tourism Awards.
Presented by BBC Newcastle's Alfie Joey at the Civic Centre in Newcastle, it was a joy to see so many people turning out from a sector that was hit particularly hard by the pandemic. In 2019, the tourism sector was the fourth largest in the North East, employing around 63,000 people and the industry bringing £1.04b into Northumberland alone.
With 15 award categories, everything from family-run campsites and cottages to cosy pubs to large chain hotels were recognised, and businesses turned out in their droves for the celebrations. After a dinner cooked and served by students from sponsor Newcastle College, the prize-giving was underway.
