Volunteers and staff of an observatory have been recognised for its work which enhances vistors experiece.
CEO of Kielder Observatory, in Kielder Forest, Catherine Johns is 'pleased' the site has been awarded VisitEngland Welcome Accolade, which are given to businesses which have gone the extra mile in providing a quality visitor experience.
VisitEngland announced the winners on October 18 the 2021-2022 and highlighted the quality and diversity of visitor experiences on offer across the country.
To receive an Accolade businesses must be a member of VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme and nominated by a VisitEngland assessor.
The winning attractions have gained the accolades based on scores received following their annual VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessments.
Marks were allocated to the 97 attractions for the outstanding experiences they provide to visitors across categories including Welcome, Best Told Story, Quality Food & Drink, Hidden Gem and Gold for overall winners.
"It really does mean the world to us when the team is recognised like this," Catherine said.
"The visitor experience is incredibly important to us, we review feedback every month and make changes and improvements constantly.
"The Visit England assessor particularly mentioned the team and the volunteers, who work so hard to make every event at the Observatory special.
"We want everyone to feel as inspired as we are by seeing the stars - we are truly privileged to do what we do and there's nothing like seeing the expressions of awe and wonder as our guests look up at a glittering sky, probably for the first time as most of the world's population now lives under skyglow, which makes it impossible to see the stars.
"This award is testament to that commitment and recognises the importance of staying connected to this amazing universe."
Kielder Observatory has been running for nearly 15 years and is based in the heart of Kielder Forest on the top of Black Fell.
The observatory was built as part of the art and architecture trail around Kielder Water and Forest.
Catherine adds: "We would also to congratulate our fellow Northumberland organisations, Alnwick Garden and The Vindolanda Trust who also received accolades."
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