THIS has been a tremendously important and successful year for a North Yorkshire holiday complex - and it is looking to add even more to its achievements so far by seeking the Retail, Tourism and Leisure Business of the Year accolade at The Press Business Awards.

The Wayside Holiday Park complex nestles in the North York Moors at Wrelton, near Pickering, and next to it the ten-acre £500,000 Wayside Lakes is being developed.

The five-star development, whose focal point is two picturesque lakes, can cater for up to 38 exclusive lodges. Already nine lodges have been bought, with strong interest coming in for others from across the north of England. Prices start from £60,000, rising to £120,000.

Owner Mark Goodson said: “Wayside Lakes is the newest addition to Wayside Holiday Park and we believe strongly it’s our best creation to date.

“The quality holiday lodge market is buoyant, thanks to the strength of the so-called grey pound, and we are discovering that an exclusive holiday park is an idea whose time has come.

“Most of our new owners are 50-plus, professional and white collar workers who are retired or semi-retired. They have decent pension pots and want a comfortable and attractive home, away from the bustling world, but close enough to beautiful countryside and sophisticated tourist attractions. They find our development fits this bill perfectly.

“Location, of course, is crucial.Wayside Lakes is ideally situated within easy reach of Yorkshire’s breathtaking coastline, historic market towns, world-class heritage and mile upon mile of superb walking country.

“Set amid North Yorkshire’s rolling, wood-fringed fields, its peace and tranquility are perfect for those who want to escape, relax and recharge their batteries.

“We are building on this beauty and tranquility, too, by creating a wildlife haven, with special wildlife walks, where nature is unfettered. We are already attracting nature-lovers and bird-spotters and we believe that our new lodge owners will find the natural environment incredibly uplifting and joyful.

“Run by three successive generations of our Goodson family, dedicated to personal service, quality and stewardship of the land, the original Wayside Holiday park development provides static caravan holiday home luxury, together with a provision for seasonal touring caravans.

“People, both our lodge owners and our staff, are crucial to our business. We think of Wayside as one big, happy family, where everyone gets along tremendously well. The owners know they can rely on our staff 100 per cent.”

Lodge owner Stuart Simpson said: “After taking early retirement, I wanted a bolthole within an hour’s drive from home. I came over to Wayside and found there a jewel in the crown lakeside. Two lakes with a small stream between is so idyllic.

“It is also so well landscaped, quiet and exclusive. I could see myself there in a stunning setting, tranquil and relaxing taking in the views over the fields to the hills.

“My veranda edges the lake you can watch the birds skimming the water squirrels collecting nuts and the rabbits.

“The plot I chose takes in the sun from rising in the east to setting in the west. It is so beautiful. You are only minutes from the moors and a short drive to the coast and have market towns either side of you.

“I really am enjoying my new holiday lodge by the lake and hope to do so for many years to come.”