TOURISM chiefs in the Hambleton district are urging local businesses to enter awards to find the "best in Yorkshire".

Council officers want locally-based companies to enter the Yorkshire Tourist Board (YTB)-run White Rose Awards.

The awards recognise excellence in all fields of tourism, from caravan parks and B&B's to visitor attractions and websites. Tourism manager David Shields said: "Tourism is a big player in Hambleton bringing in more than £40million to the district last year. We have a lot of high quality attractions and service providers in the region which we urge to enter this contest. It does not matter how large or small you are - and whether you are a member of the YTB, everyone is eligible to have a go."

Updated: 10:50 Saturday, April 26, 2003