HAVING opened in 1975 the National Railway Museum is now the largest of its kind in the world and is vying for the Tourism and Hospitality Business of the Year crown.

Recognised as the first national museum outside of London, the NRM has recently undertaken a £1.4 million refurbishment of its Station Hall, which offers space for up to 800 guests for receptions, dinners and award ceremonies.

Having counted John Lewis, the University of York and DB Schenker among its clients, as well as hosting the Chamber of Commerce Dinner and the Visit York Tourism Awards, business tourism is big business for the venue, which welcomed more than 23,145 guests to 354 business events in the latest financial year.

This year has also seen the launch of the Countess of York dining carriage, which is a fully restored 1956 Pullman-style, 33-seater carriage.

The NRM's catering operation boasts a full commitment to sustainability, meaning genuine Yorkshire produce is utilised wherever possible to help promote local suppliers.

On average, 47 per cent of the restaurant’s spend is on purchases within the region. NRM’s in-house caterers, Levy Restaurants UK, are renowned for their innovative menus that utilise the best sustainable produce from quality Yorkshire suppliers including Taylors of Harrogate, Hughes Bakery – Saltaire; Shepherds Purse Cheeses - Thirsk and Styals Meats – York and Thirsk.

Marketing and sales executive Claire Russell, said: "The NRM strives to stand out from its competitors in an increasingly crowded market and has developed a number of marketing initiatives to give potential bookers an in-depth preview of the venue’s unique event offering.

"The promotional material includes an animated e-brochure and a behind the scenes YouTube video.

"The NRM prioritises face-to-face interaction with existing and prospective clients and utilises relationships with Visit York, Welcome to Yorkshire, York Chamber of Commerce, York Professionals and the PA Hub to maintain an active presence at exhibitions and meet-the-buyer events, as well as hosting or attending networking events."