POPULAR tourist spots in North Yorkshire are celebrating after being shortlisted for a prestigious award.

The White Swan Hotel in Pickering, is one of the surprise nominations put forward for a White Rose Award, which are being sponsored by John Smith's and BT.

There are ten shortlisted categories in this year's awards, including marketing campaign of the year, visitor attraction of the year and best newcomer to tourism.

The White Swan has been shortlisted in the under-50 bedroom hotel of the year category.

Owner, Deirdre Buchanan said: "We are absolutely delighted. We have spent a great deal of money refurbishing the hotel and it's a testament to everybody's hard work.

"We have a very high standard of care, wine, food and service."

David Andrews, chief executive of Yorkshire Tourist Board said: "The White Rose Awards showcase the best the region has to offer visitors."

The World of James Herriot, in Thirsk, was also shortlisted for an award, in the visitor attraction of the year category, along with the National Railway Museum, in York

Coun Margaret Skilbeck, chairman of the Tourism sub-committee said: "To be into the finals for these awards is a major achievement. We are up against the best attractions in Yorkshire but now hope we can win through in the end.

"Hambleton District Council has always been convinced of the appeal of James Herriot. The volume of visitors we have seen so far and now these award nominations have confirmed that we were right."

York Minster Conference and Banqueting Centre was nominated for conference venue of the year.

The winners of all ten categories will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony taking place at Castle Howard on May 24.