Pictured above: (l-r) Stuart Render (editor Coach Monthly), Winner Dave Parry (Parrys International), Steve Smith (Murphy Salisbury), Pariz (Presenter/ model)

Stratford-based accountants, Murphy Salisbury, were pleased to support the coach tourism industry recently, by sponsoring an award at this year's prestigious Coach Tourism Awards.

The firm, which specialises in coach and tourism businesses, sponsored the Coach Tour Operator of the Year award and so the duty fell upon firm partner, Steve Smith to present the accolade to the winner, Parry's International. Parry's runs a fleet of ten coaches, operating from its base in Cheslyn Hay, and according to the judges, represents 'a benchmark for all that's best about coach tourism'.

The event was well-populated, with over 350 guests attending the ceremony, which took place at Stratford's Holiday Inn on May 20. The evening began with a popular suppliers' workshop, followed by a pre-dinner networking session overlooking the river, with opportunities to take boat rides on the water, concluding with dinner and the presentations.

Commenting on the awards, Steve said: "Tourism is an essential cog in the mechanics of our economy, and so I feel it is immensely important to do all we can to support those who work in the industry.

"I am very pleased to have been a part of these awards, and offer my sincere congratulations to all the winners."