Start on the road to possible county, regional and, perhaps, even national success and fame.

The 2020/21 Dorset Tourism Awards have opened for entry.

Businesses in Dorset – including Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch – are invited to begin their submissions.

The awards, now in their eighth year, cover the whole of Dorset.

They offer businesses the chance to win not just in the county, but to progress on to the regional South West awards and – for matching categories – the national VisitEngland awards.

Last year’s entrants described the benefits of entering the awards as increasing bookings, generating PR, helping with staff morale, retention and recruitment, as well as getting free feedback on how their business could be improved.

Categories cover the full range of tourism-related businesses including pubs, cafes and restaurants as well as accommodation, attractions and events.

There are also generic categories for ‘unsung heroes’, innovation, new businesses, dog friendly, accessibility and sustainability.

Awards organiser Robin Barker, pictured left, said: “It’s always great to hear from entrants what a positive change the awards can bring.

“To help everyone submit their best entry we are running a series of workshops across the South West and I look forward to seeing many businesses there.

“Our top tip is to start preparing now, giving yourself time to consider all categories and liaising with colleagues before clicking the SUBMIT button.”

The awards are free to enter as they are supported by many sponsors.

Clare Bushby, Managing Director of Clockwork Marketing, said her company was proud to be the headline sponsor.

She added: “For 25 years we’ve boosted hospitality bookings throughout the South West.

“Dorset is an English country fantasy come to life – a marketer’s dream.

“We’re excited to be far from the madding crowd and look forward to helping Dorset hospitality businesses thrive.”

Full details of the awards can be found at www.dorsettourismawards.org.uk

All entries must be submitted online by April 26.

However, with Easter coming up organisers recommend that businesses start as soon as possible.