A GUEST house in Ludlow has provided a further boost for the holiday and tourist industry in the town by lifting a major award.

Tourism is a major contributor to the economy of south Shropshire.

Ludlow guest house, Old Downton Lodge is celebrating after being crowned ‘Midlands Hidden Gem’ at last night’s eviivo Awards, the UK’s premier annual awards for the independent hospitality industry.

Old Downton Lodge finished top of the list in the Midlands Hidden Gem category after being judged by a panel of industry experts at a glittering awards ceremony in London.

The guest house caters for visitors to the area from all over the world.

Five other independent accommodation businesses shortlisted from the Midlands also competed across a variety of categories including: ‘Sweetest Homestay’, ’Direct Line for Business Outstanding Host’ and ‘Budget with a Twist’.

These independently owned B&Bs, guesthouses, boutique hotels and holiday rentals were shortlisted to represent the pinnacle of UK and particularly Midlands hospitality, providing some of the country’s most special holiday experiences in a variety of settings.

The eviivo Awards, now in their fifth year, recognised the very best of the independent accommodation sector in the United Kingdom.