TOM Lawton from The Mere Golf Resort and Spa is up for a Rising Star accolade in Marketing Cheshire’s 15th annual awards.

Numerous local businesses have made the shortlist for the awards, which will be presented at The Mere in October.

The awards recognise excellence and outstanding achievement by local businesses and individuals working in Cheshire’s visitor economy, which is worth more than £3.5 billion.

The winners will be announced at a glittering award ceremony on Thursday, October 3. The event last year attracted 300 guests representing Cheshire’s top attractions, hotels and businesses.

Mark Livesey, chief executive of Marketing Cheshire, said: “There are 16 categories in this year’s award ceremony, including new awards for Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year and Pub of the Year.

“As always, competition has been fierce because Cheshire is home to nationally recognised tourist brands and world-class tourism professionals.

“The annual award ceremony is a great way to recognise and celebrate achievements in the Cheshire’s visitor economy.”

Cottons Hotel and Spa and The Mere Golf Resort and Spa are finalists in the Business Events Venue of the Year category.

Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre is shortlisted for the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award, as is The Mere Golf Resort and Spa for the Large Hotel of the Year and Quarry Bank at Styal for the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year.

Tom Lawton, Interim Head of Golf at The Mere Golf Resort and Spa, is a finalist for the Rising Star in the Tourism Industry Award, and the Team of the Year finalists include Cottons Hotel and Spa Team, Tatton Park's Business Support Team and The Greens Team at The Mere Golf Resort and Spa.

Larkspur Lodge, Tatton Park and The Mere Golf Resort and Spa are shortlisted for the Wedding Venue of the Year Award.

Tickets are on sale at marketingcheshire.co.uk. The evening includes a drinks reception, three-course meal and the awards ceremony. Sponsorship opportunities are available; call Leonie Hallam on 01244 405606.