The awards scheme is recognised as one of the most coveted accolades in the industry and is designed to reflect the high quality, diversity and innovation synonymous with tourism today in the Highlands and Islands.

This year there are 27 finalists in 10 categories, including individuals, initiatives and businesses located around the region from Shetland, Orkney and the Outer Hebrides to Ross-shire, Moray and Argyll.

Poolewe Ceilidh Partnership has been shortlisted in the Community Tourism category and faces stiff competition from the Caledonian Canal Ceilidh Trail 2008 and the Keith Tourism Action Group.

Happy Highland Campers is in the final of the New Tourism Business Award where it is up against Broad Bay House, Isle of Lewis, The Walking Theatre Company, Glendaruel, and walkhighlands.co.uk on the Isle of Skye.

Flora Corbett, owner of Happy Highland Campers started the business in February this year as a means of working from home while looking after two-year-old twins. By May she had three fully equipped vintage VW camper vans available for hire, and a busy season followed through to October. One of the white vans was even hired for a wedding in Achiltibuie, and there have already been wedding enquiries for 2010. Husband Tom acts as the company’s part-time chief mechanic.

Flora said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have been shortlisted for the New Tourism Business award, and have been thrilled at the success of the business in such a short time. We hope that being shortlisted for an award will stand us in good stead for next year and will help raise awareness of our product and the Highlands as a fantastic touring destination”.

The winners will be announced at an award ceremony and gala dinner on Friday, November 21 at the Drumossie Hotel, Inverness. To book tickets go to www.highland-tourism-awards.co.uk, call 01224 646488 or email tickets@highland-tourism-awards.co.uk

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