Pictured above: A group shot of all category winners with David James, Chief Executive of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire (fifth from left)

Stalwarts of the local tourism industry stepped into the spotlight to have their sterling efforts recognised and rewarded at a glitzy 'Oscars'-style awards evening staged by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire.

The official tourist board's Chairman Andrew Pugh and his wife Vanessa received a special Lifetime Achievement Award - and nine main category winners also scored success - at the official tourist board's Excel Tourism Awards at Chatsworth last night (Thursday March 10).

Around 170 guests - including the Duke of Devonshire, who presented Andrew and Vanessa with their award - attended the prestigious event in the Carriage House Restaurant, held to showcase quality and excellence in the local tourism workforce.

"Andrew and Vanessa were clearly delighted that their long career in tourism - not just in running their own successful business at the Heights of Abraham at Matlock Bath, but also in contributing to and promoting the industry at a regional and national level - was acknowledged and applauded," said David James, Chief Executive of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire.

"We in turn were thrilled that the Duke agreed to present them with their award, and to join us in paying tribute to all the other worthy winners on the night. Our congratulations go to those whose efforts were highlighted and rewarded in what proved to be an enjoyable celebration for all involved."

Andrew Pugh, who accepted the joint award on both his own and Vanessa's behalf, added: "Vanessa and I are surprised, shocked and delighted to receive this award. We both have a passion for tourism, and it is my privilege and pleasure to lead the young team at Visit Peak District & Derbyshire. They are the best, and they deserve support, and I look forward to taking them on to even greater things.

"I wouldn't be here tonight but for Vanessa, who has been the powerhouse behind everything I have achieved. She has always been there, putting things in order and making sure everything runs smoothly, and she has enabled me to do everything I have accomplished in my life."

Compere for the evening was Colin Sykes, Environment and Transport Correspondent for BBC TV's regional programme North West Tonight, and the main category award winners were:

• Outstanding Customer Care (sponsored by The Clear Black Wine Company): Steve Ogan, Blakelow Farm Holiday Cottages, Winster

• Manager of the Year (sponsored by the Derbyshire Economic Partnership):Paul Kaye, Gulliver's Kingdom, Matlock Bath

• Most Promising Student or Trainee (sponsored by Derby College): Christine Edwards, University of Derby

• Event Planner of the Year (sponsored by Sounds Commercial): Kay Rotchford, Chatsworth Settlement Trustees

• Young Chef of the Year (sponsored by the University of Derby Buxton): Pierce O'Connor, of Le Mistral, Wirksworth

• Volunteer of the Year (sponsored by the Derbyshire Times Group of Newspapers): Alan Gifford, Heage Windmill Society

• Outstanding Contribution to Tourism (sponsored by The Peacock at Rowsley): David Brown, Hoe Grange Holidays, Brassington

• Unsung Hero (sponsored by C W Sellors Jewellers): Doreen Motley, Chatsworth

• Team of the Year (sponsored by The Camping and Caravanning Club): The Operational Team, Gulliver's Kingdom, Matlock Bath

Added David James: "We are grateful to Chatsworth for hosting the Excel Tourism Awards for the second successive year, and to all the other businesses and organisations who have given their much-appreciated support.

"These awards reflect our commitment to quality and in raising the bar in everything we do, and play an integral role in our efforts to encourage tourism businesses to offer visitors the best possible experience when visiting the area."