Family Business of the Year

Winner: Park Cliffe Camping and Caravan Park

Sponsored by Lamont Pridmore

When Susan Dickson and her family received the award in this hard-fought category her speech resonated with many other businesses in the audience.

“As family businesses know families do not always get on…but most of the time we do!” she told the crowd. But they must be doing something right as Park Cliffe, a camping and caravan park set in 25 acres of beautiful, unspoilt countryside in Windermere, is going from strength to strength.

It is owned and run by Susan and Derek Dickson with their son Jack and daughter Abi. Since 2007 they have developed the park with an eye for detail and dedication to investment and the need to continue to offer ever better standards to guests.

Susan is involved in many aspects of the business, from general manager to marketing director, HR manager, bookkeeper, park warden, receptionist, tourist information adviser, chief cook and bottle washer and all-round problem solver. She is supported in

everything by Derek, especially maintaining the park’s infrastructure and woodland, wildlife and habitats.

Meanwhile, Jack manages outdoor projects and groundworks while Abi can always be called on to help on reception, behind the bar, in the shop and with general cleaning duties. Abi also writes many of the park’s website blog posts and supports its marketing activities.

With their small team they are committed to delivering the best experience and service they can to guests, taking a hands-on approach to any problems and opportunities that may arise. The family ethos runs through the business with many multi-generational family groups of visitors who enjoy the children’s adventure playground, bar and breakfast restaurant, games room and well-stocked shop.

The business, which prides itself on its green credentials, includes a range of accommodation from touring and camping pitches, static caravans for hire, a luxury cottage, privately owned holiday home caravans and lodges and a range of glamping including camping pods and a shepherd’s hut.

Graham Lamont, of sponsors Lamont Pridmore, said: “The judges were impressed by the strong family values demonstrated by [this business] which have influenced their decisions and created a place which their customers, many of whom are families themselves, love.

Now with the second generation working in the business, their investment in quality products, services and sustainable technologies, has resulted in strong growth and financial success, despite challenging times, and they are recognised as an exemplar in their sector.”

RUNNERS UP:

Low Sizergh Barn

Stanwix Park Holiday Centre