MOORS Valley Country Park and Forest near Ringwood has scooped a gold award at the 2022 Dorset Tourism Awards.

It was the fourth time the park, which is jointly owned and managed by Dorset Council and Forestry England, received an award in large visitor attraction category.

The prestigious annual awards celebrate the best in tourism across the county in a variety of categories.

Linda Laker, Forestry England’s Recreation Manager for Dorset, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen for this award and it is a great credit to all of the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to make Moors Valley Country Park and Forest such a great place to visit.

“It’s been a challenging and unimaginable two years for everyone in the tourism industry and this award helps to demonstrate how Moors Valley has not just survived as a destination but thrived, and it also recognises all the hard work and passion that every team member has shown. We are feeling very proud.”

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, added: “

Moors Valley Country Park seems to go from strength to strength year after year with its family focussed trails, which proved hugely popular last summer, bringing in record numbers of visitors.”

Christine Hughes, onsite cleaner at Moors Valley was awarded Gold in the Unsung Hero category in recognition of her continuous commitment and hard work to keep visitors, staff and volunteers safe throughout the pandemic.

“I’m overwhelmed, it’s wonderful to know that I’m recognised and appreciated,” she said. “I take great pride in my work and I’m honoured to be part of an amazing, friendly team.”

“A good team that works together with passion and enthusiasm can achieve the best in everything they do.”

 

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