London 2012 volunteers win outstanding contribution award
Games Makers recognised for their welcoming nature and team spirit.
The 70,000 Games Makers from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games won the Outstanding Contribution to Tourism award at the Visit England Awards for Excellence 2013 last night.
Four Games Makers picked up the award on behalf of the purple and orange volunteering army from former Olympian and triple jump Gold Medallist Jonathan Edwards at the ceremony at Lancashire County Cricket Club.
The Games Makers join a list of past winners which include The National Trust and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Minister for Sport and Tourism Hugh Robertson said: “The 70,000 Games Makers made such a big contribution to London 2012 and the country as a whole. They helped showcase a modern, diverse and fun Britain and warmly welcomed visitors from all over the world. I congratulate them on this award that is thoroughly deserved.”
As well as the Games Makers there were 31 other winners announced at the Ceremony, selected by a panel of tourism industry experts. This included the Tourism Superstar Award, which goes to a Tourism unsung hero, which was won by Claire Preece, Hospitality Manager at Kents Cavern in Torquay.
Visit England chief executive James Berresford said: “The awards champion the very best in quality and customer service, and continue to help to raise standards across the industry, establishing England’s place as a world-class destination and a brilliant place to visit.”