AN EXMOOR hotel was among the big names celebrated at the recent South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

Dunkery Beacon Country House in Wootton Courtenay was given a Highly Commended in the B&B Guest Accommodation and Inn of the Year category at this year’s awards.

John Bradley, co-partner at the hotel, said: “We’re delighted about winning this award. It’s a brilliant celebration of all we’ve done since buying the hotel in 2012.

“To be recognised with a Highly Commended is a huge achievement, especially in England’s top tourism region. It’s the second year running that we’ve scooped this accolade as well.”

John is a chef, has more than 25 years of experience in catering, having worked numerous top chef roles in this country and overseas.

Meanwhile, Jane also has a background in hospitality and worked in the wine industry for more than 15 years.

Jane Bradley, also a co-partner at the hotel, said: “We pride ourselves on offering luxury accommodation for those wishing to escape the humdrum of day-to-day life and to unwind in a truly tranquil location with stunning scenery all around.

“Our restaurant offers relaxed yet sophisticated dining with a seasonally changing, à la carte menu and a focus on locally-sourced produce. Our wine list is supplied by top London wine merchants Berry Bros. & Rudd.

"We’re all about offering our guests the very best when it comes to ingredients, accommodation and service.”

Among the other big winners from Somerset were the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival which took gold in the Tourism Event of the Year category, Cross Lane Hotel in Minehead which was awarded silver in the Small hotel of the Year category, and in the Pub of the Year The Cross Keys Inn in Somerton was highly commended.

Clevedon Hall was given a highly commended in the Venue and Business Tourism Award, and the Unsung Hero Award for Customer Service went to Adrie van der Luijt of Visit Nunney CIC in Nunney, Somerset.

To find out more about Dunkery Beacon Country House, call 01643 841 241 or visit www.dunkerybeaconaccommodation.co.uk.