Nominations for the Tourism Awards scheme 2009 will close on Friday 30th October. Candidates are currently being collated by the Department of Tourism and Leisure and in excess of 300 entries have already been received. 

People are asked to nominate in six award categories, which include: accommodation of the year, attraction of the year, best eating out experience, best town/village, event of the year and best customer service. 

In the accommodation of the year category, there are three awards for the best self-catering premises, guest accommodation and hotel. 

Nominations can be made online at www.visitisleofman.com or by completing nomination cards. 

There are nomination cards and ballot boxes available at the Manx Welcome Centre, Ferry Departure lounge at the Sea Terminal, the Airport check in area and departure lounge and the Villa Marina.

Tourism and Leisure Minister Martyn Quayle MHK said, "The Tourism Awards recognise outstanding quality and service within the tourism industry on the Isle of Man and I would like to thank all those who have made nominations and have shared their knowledge of people and organisations who have achieved high standards of service. 

"The response to date has been very encouraging.  It is a great pleasure to have the opportunity to reward the hard work and commitment of professionals in the industry and visitors and residents alike are still welcome to nominate a tourism business, organisation or individual for an award before the closing date on 30th October." 

The winners will be announced at an evening Awards Ceremony open to the whole Tourism Industry to be held on Tuesday 8th December at the Villa Marina. 

"The event will commence with a drinks reception, followed by a hot buffet before the presentation of the awards. 

"Guests can then enjoy a great line-up of live entertainment, including a swing band, and the evening will draw to a close at midnight. 

"There will be complimentary admission for award nominees and a guest and further tickets are available priced at ?20 per head and ?200 for tables of 10. 

"The Department of Tourism and Leisure would like to extend a warm invitation to all of its Tourism Industry partners and businesses to attend what promises to be an excellent occasion and, indeed, a great opportunity to celebrate the festive season in style and reward themselves and their staff for all their hard work during the year." 

For more details about the Awards Ceremony, contact Angela Byrne, Quality and Service Manager, on (01624) 687083 or email angela.byrne@gov.im.