Pictured above: Samantha Fisher receives the 'Highly Commended' framed certificate on behalf of Deer Park Hall

A luxury wedding and conference centre in the heart of Worcestershire is celebrating, after being recognised for its contribution to business tourism.

Deer Park Hall, in Eckington, Pershore, was 'highly commended', as runner-up in the Business Tourism Award, at this year's Worcestershire Welcome Awards.

Members of the public submitted nominations for the award via text, post and online. Independent judges reviewed each category, and judged nominees on various criteria, including the use of local produce within the business, potential to increase tourism, and strong knowledge of the local area.

The Worcestershire Welcome awards aim to recognise businesses that go the extra mile to make Worcestershire stay special and was hosted at The Three Counties Show at the Showground Malvern, on Friday June 17, where nominees enjoyed locally sourced food and drink.

Caron Steele, Director at Deer Park Hall said: "We are proud to have been recognised for our efforts within the community and Worcestershire.

"We feel it's absolutely vital to support local business, and are lucky enough to work with Belle House, Crown Catering, KB Catering, Eckington Manor and Brookes Catering, who endeavour to source local quality ingredients where possible."

Helen Wheels, presenter of Wyvern's Breakfast Show was the compere for the evening, which was attended by many business and tourism representatives from across the county.

Bill Munn, Director of Thomas Vale Construction, who judged the category Deer Park Hall was nominated for said: "Deer Park Hall comes very highly commended in this extremely close-run contest. When I visited the venue last month, the first thing I noticed was what a lovely atmosphere it has.

"I expect that Deer Park Hall will go on to win many more awards in the future, and will continue to do Worcestershire proud", he added.

Deer Park Hall, which is set in a 1400-acre site, offers a range of facilities for couples to tie the knot, as well as modern conference facilities. It is also used for corporate entertainment and party celebrations, with guests enjoying outstanding views of the countryside in lavish surroundings.