THE team at Thornton Hall Country Park is celebrating after its Christmas special was named 'small event of the year' at the Lancashire Tourism Awards.

Representatives of the visitor attraction in Thornton-in-Craven went along to the awards ceremony held at the Blackpool Conference and Exhibition Centre and sponsored by the University of Central Lancashire to be named category winner for their 'Thornton Hall Christmas Adventure'

Emma Harrison, owner of Thornton Hall Country Park, said: “So many wonderful individuals work with us to deliver our first-class events. Seeing our visitor’s happy faces, as well as the great feedback we receive makes it all worthwhile. Winning this award is the icing on the cake.”

Rachel McQueen, chief executive of Marketing Lancashire said of all the finalists in the awards: “What came through loud and clear from the judges was the tremendous hard work, determination, entrepreneurship and vision demonstrated by our tourism businesses.

"There is absolutely no shortage of pride, passion and ambition in this room, and myself and the Marketing Lancashire team look forward to working with you to support the county’s tourism and hospitality sector to thrive.”

The park stages a Christmas adventure for families every December, including live shows, food, Father Christmas and his elves.