Isle of Wight businesses are in the running for this years’ Beautiful South Awards.

Away Resorts at Whitecliff Bay, English Heritage's Osborne and wild camping site Camp Wight are all named as finalists in the prestigious competition run by Tourism South East.

They will face competition from heavy hitters from across the south, including Kent, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hampshire.

Visit Isle of Wight MD Will Myles has congratulated them, ahead of the award ceremony in March.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Whitecliff Bay is a finalist for Camping and Holiday Park of the Year

Will Myles said: "It is a testament to the hard work of people here on the Island to continue to strive to make their tourism offering the very best it can be.

"I wish you all good luck.

"These businesses show they are among the best in the South of England and will put the Isle of Wight at the forefront of potential visitors' minds, but not until the time is right."

Fran Downton, Chief Executive of Tourism South East, said: "We felt strongly that the Beautiful South Awards should go ahead this year.

"Recognising and celebrating the quality and excellence of our tourism business, in the face of adversity is really important to us." 

Isle of Wight County Press:

Camp Wight

Gemma Cowley from Camp Wight said: "We are absolutely thrilled to have been named as a finalist in the New Tourism Business category of the Beautiful South Awards.

"We are very much a fledgling small family business. To be shortlisted is a fantastic recognition of the work of all our family, including our two children."

Island businesses commended in their categories include Tapnell Farm and Nettlecombe Farm for Self-catering Accommodation.

Commended in the Restaurant, Tearooms and Café category was Vernon Cottage at Shanklin Old Village.

Susan de Vere, owner of the popular destination, with her husband Paul, said: "We are delighted to win this huge accolade.

"We thank all our fantastic tearoom and restaurant staff plus the local volunteers who help man our Shanklin Tourist Information point in the Gift Shop, all of whom make Vernon Cottage world class."

Isle of Wight County Press:

Vernon Cottage

  • The Beautiful South Awards will take place online, on March 4