The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna, has congratulated this year’s finalists in the Northern Ireland Hospitality Awards.
Among those to have made the shortlist is the Council-owned Ballymena Showgrounds, which is in the running for Best Sports Venue of the Year, alongside another excellent local facility, Inver Park in Larne.
Elsewhere, Mid and East Antrim is represented by Magheramorne Estate (Family Venue of the Year), Carrickfergus Castle (Tourist Attraction of the Year), The Fun Factory (Children’s Play Centre of the Year), The Diamond Rock Club (Live Entertainment Venue of the Year), Red’s Sports Lounge (Best Sports Bar), Leighinmohr House (Boutique and Romantic Hotel of the Year and Hotel of the Year) and Ballygally Castle (Boutique Hotel of the Year and Best Hotel General Manager), Galgorm (Resort Hotel of the Year and Spa Hotel of the Year), Rosspark (Hotel of the Year), Clockhouse (Best Hotel General Manager), Garron View (Bed and Breakfast of the Year), Lighthouse Bistro (Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year), Castello Italia and The Olderfleet Bar and Restaurant (both Restaurant of the Year and Best Rest Restaurant Team), and The Thatch Inn (Best Restaurant Team), Whitehead Golf Club and Galgorm Castle (both Best Golf Club).
A full list of finalists can be found here:
The Mayor said:
“Huge congratulations to all those from our Borough who have been shortlisted in the Northern Ireland Hospitality Awards.
“They are true ambassadors for Mid and East Antrim and this is recognition of the incredible contribution they make to our area.
“Mid and East Antrim is brimming with superb hospitality providers who are the lifeblood of our ever-flourishing local tourism sector.
“Following the devastation of the pandemic and the huge challenges of the current cost of living crisis, it is more important than ever that we as a Council and a community support our world-class hospitality sector.
“A special mention must also go to our Ballymena Showgrounds staff who work tirelessly to ensure the Showgrounds is one of Northern Ireland’s top sporting venues. This recognition is fitting for the great work you do on behalf of the people of our Borough.”
The awards are organised and hosted by Creative Oceanic but voted for by the public.
They acknowledge everyone who works hard to enhance the reputation of the country, from restaurants that serve delicious dishes to bars and clubs that keep Northern Ireland alive at nights, shopping centres as well as museums and tourist attractions that promote the rich Northern Irish heritage.
A spokesperson for The Northern Ireland Hospitality Awards 2023, said:
“Working for the hospitality industry can be challenging at times. These awards aim to recognise those who have succeeded in this sector, despite the difficulties. There are people who have dedicated their whole career to making the country a special destination for visitors. It is time to give these professionals the recognition they deserve.
“The awards will provide a platform to thank and honour those who have contributed to making Northern Ireland a friendly and welcoming place, enhancing the country’s reputation nationally and internationally. We would like to congratulate all the finalists for their nomination and wish them the best of luck.”