To celebrate the continuing quality, excellence and enterprise in Poole The Palms 2010 ,  Poole's Annual Tourism Awards return to recognise businesses which have had a significant impact on the town's tourism industry.

A special lunch will be hosted at the Harbour Heights revealing who has been chosen as this year's winners.  The Palms , organised by Poole Tourism and sponsored by local commercial property agents, surveyors and town planners Sibbett Gregory is now in its eighth year.  

Jonathan Sibbett, Director, Sibbett Gregory, said: "We are proud to have had such a long association with these awards which recognise the high standard of Poole's Tourism Industry and reflect the quality of local businesses and individuals who strive to enhance Poole's reputation and tourism product.  We are especially delighted to be able to acknowledge the importance of smaller businesses and individuals who contribute in their unique ways with the Sponsors Special Award".

Bruce Grant-Braham, Chairman of the Poole Partnership, said:  "The Tourism Awards are a great opportunity to recognise the importance and benefits of tourism in Poole, both for residents and visitors.  The fantastic commitment and support of local businesses and the Council in a really unique partnership brings huge economic benefits to the whole town.  It is also necessary to recognise the importance of our fantastic natural surroundings and maintain these for future generations."   

There are four Palm Awards:

• Tourism Personality - contributing significantly to the Tourism Industry in Poole (either currently or in near past) - displaying range of skills and attributes and delivering added value above their normal role.
• Tourism Development of the Year - a development that has identified opportunities and added to the quality and excellence of the tourism product in the area.
• Tourism Promotion of the Year - an activity/campaign, which has demonstrated innovation and generated extensive audience reaction.
• Green Tourism Initiative of the Year - contributions by individuals, groups, or companies towards the environment and or/or sustainable development.

Last years winners were:

Promotion of the Year - RNLI Open Day
Development of the Year - Hotel du Vin
Long-term Personal Contribution to Tourism - Andrew Silver, Banquets
Green Tourism Initiative - Poole Harbour Trails
Special Awards by the Sponsors - Alan White, Master Potter and Viv Endecott, Ginger Pop