A HOTEL and inn in East Lancashire have achieved silver success in the 'Oscars' of the tourism industry -- the prestigious North West Tourism Awards.

The Inn at Whitewell, near Clitheroe, won silver for the best small hotel award, as did the McDonald Dunkenhalgh, Clayton-le-Moors, for the best hotel.

Silver medal status was also acheived in the self-catering holiday category, with both the Coach House, Bashall Eaves, and Higher Gills Farm, Clitheroe.

And Blackburn's Shalom bed and breakfast has also won medal honours for the Tourism for All award.

Twenty two tourism establishments in Lancashire were shortlisted for the awards, outstripping county competitors, with Cheshire receiving nine nominations, Merseyside, 11 and Manchester, 13.

The awards ceremony took place at the Radisson SAS Hotel and Resort at Manchester Airport.

Anthony Goldstone of the North West Tourist Board said: "This has been a very difficult year for tourism and it is right to say that the foot and mouth epidemic has had a catastrophic effect on all businesses in the countryside.

"Today's finalists are all winners, whether they received gold or silver awards, and have shown excellence in their establishments."