THE cream of Cheshire's bustling tourism industry will be applauded in June when Chester Racecourse hosts this year's Visit Chester & Cheshire (VCC) Awards.

From hotels and B&Bs to visitor attractions and outstanding retailers, a host of businesses that have helped to make Cheshire an essential place to visit will be recognised.

Organised by VCC, and supported by North West Regional Development Agency, the awards were launched in 2004 to celebrate excellence and innovation in the visitor economy.

VCC chairman Mike Cooksley said: "Any business that is proud of its high standards, that strives for quality and that seeks to make the visitor experience extra special, should be part of this year's awards.

"The 15 diverse categories on offer mean there is an opportunity for nearly every industry related business to get involved and try for that top accolade."

For more information contact Nicola Said at VCC on 01244 405600 or email n.said@visitchesterandcheshire.co.uk