The prestigious awards ceremony, organised by the Group Travel Organiser Magazine, recognises the best in the travel industry, specifically related to group holidays.

The awards are voted for by readers of the nationally distributed magazine, culminating in a dinner attended by the very best in the industry.

Awards range from best airline for groups, this year won by British Airways, to best hotels and attractions, especially those that go the extra mile to attract, and more importantly, look after groups.

The Clifton Park Hotel in St Annes were finalists in the category, Best Individual Hotel for Groups, beating off stiff competition from hotels all over the country.

Readers voted for the hotel due to its attention to welcoming groups into the hotel with a cup of tea – very welcome to groups who have been travelling for many miles.

Organisers also recognised the hotel's commitment to quality, and its exceptional levels of service in The Ballroom restaurant.

Group organiser, David Smith from Newton-le-Willows, said: "The Clifton Park Hotel is a unique hotel as far as group travel is concerned.

"Many hotels segregate the groups from the rest of the hotel, or provide different menus.

"The Clifton Park Hotel goes the extra mile to make the groups feel special – indeed I brought one group to the hotel in 2006; this year I have brought 11 groups to the hotel already!"

Director of sales, Peter Taylor said: "This award is testimony to the hard work and dedication of all our staff at the hotel. The hotel has gone from strength to strength since the Craigavon Hotel was renovated in 1998. Since then, we have increased the number of bedrooms from 23 to 47 through the development of the rear of the property on Orchard Road."

The Clifton Park Hotel is now a 47-bedroom, three-star hotel as assessed by Visit Britain

Facilities in the hotel include and indoor swimming pool, luxury changing rooms, gymnasium, ballroom, restaurant, lounge bar and garden areas.

New additions include three terrace rooms with private terrace balcony's overlooking the hotel gardens, proving very popular with guests during the summer months.