Salisbury Cathedral wins coveted tourism award

Salisbury Cathedral has won The VisitWiltshire Large Tourism Award in the tenth annual South Wilts Business of the Year Awards.

Accepting the award on behalf of the Cathedral, David Coulthard, Director of Marketing and Communications said “We’re delighted to receive the award, it recognises how hard we work to bring visitors to this beautiful Cathedral and its surrounding Close, and to look after them when they are here. I think this is a particular tribute to the wonderful welcome provided by our volunteer guides.

“This Cathedral plays a very important role in the city. We’re having a busy year so far and I hope that success is reflected in the results of many Salisbury businesses. After our 750th anniversary year in 2008 we’ve tried to maintain the momentum – 2009 has seen our summer exhibition looking back at the recent Time Team dig and we’re about to launch a new club for regular visitors to Salisbury Cathedral. I’m looking forward to more improvements in the coming 12 months and I hope we can return and win again in 2010!”

The judges’ citation for Salisbury Cathedral stated “Here is a well established operation, which has for a long time served its visitors and welcomed everyone. But it has taken on board all the new innovations, it has nurtured its staff, it has stayed the same but evolved with the times. It has been central to the success of Salisbury and its community over the years and with its plans and ambitions will continue to be so for a long time to come through its service, and services, to city, community and visitor.”

Alun Williams, Head of Partnership, VisitWiltshire Tourism Partnership, commented, “It was great to see the Cathedral win this award, as they implement changes to ensure it continues to be such a fantastic visitor attraction. It is one of South Wiltshire’s best attractions and the award gives the Cathedral and the team the recognition they deserve.”

The annual awards celebrate business excellence and success in Salisbury and South Wiltshire and have grown in importance since being founded by Spire FM and the Salisbury branch of the Federation for Small Businesses.