The team at Monkey Haven in Newport are said to be ‘speechless’ after scooping Small Visitor Attraction of the Year in VisitEngland’s Awards for Excellence 2017.
The prestigious awards, now in their 28th year, celebrate those businesses and individuals who continuously raise the bar of England’s tourism offer. The 25 award winners span the length and breadth of the country, including here on the Isle of Wight.
The awards ceremony, hosted by Sue Perkins, took place at the Hilton Waldorf in London yesterday (Monday) and welcomed 67 finalists selected from almost 600 applications, the highest number ever received.
Monkey Haven, which is situated on Staplers Road just outside Newport, beat off the competition to be crowned national winner in the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year category.
Founder of Monkey Haven, Don Walser, who attended the ceremony with his daughter Kelly Wickes, commented:
“We are amazed and delighted! This award means so much to us. Six years ago, when we set up a primate rescue centre on the Isle of Wight, everyone thought we were crackers. Now we’re the best small attraction in the country.
“We’re a small charity but thanks to the support that we’ve had, we’ve been able to continually expand and evolve and care for growing numbers of creatures in crisis, from monkeys who’ve been smuggled through customs to meerkats who’ve been victims of the cruel pet trade.”
“Thank you to everyone who has made this possible – our dedicated team of staff and volunteers, and every single person who’s visited us or supported us in any other way. This award is for you all.”
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VisitEngland Chief Executive Sally Balcombe said:
“This year’s awards were fiercely contested and we had some terrific applications, showcasing not only the excellence on offer within English tourism but also the outstanding innovation and the sheer diversity of experiences throughout the country.
“From afternoon tea in a railway carriage to ‘Alice in Wonderland’ boutique hotel rooms, from great family friendly animal attractions to cottages for one, all well deserved the recognition of their quality and service.”
