Taste North and Wick Development Trust among HITA finalists

The Taste North food and drink festival and the revitalised Wick caravan and camping site are among the initiatives shortlisted in annual awards that recognise the north’s leading tourism-related events and organisations.

They are among more than 40 finalists named across 14 categories in the 2024 Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), which identify and highlight excellence in the hospitality industry within the region.

Taste North is nominated in the category for Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival, while Wick Development Trust – which has led a revamp at Wick River Campsite – is listed under Celebrating Thriving Communities.

Other finalists from Caithness and Sutherland are Dunnet Bay Escapes, which offers deluxe lodges and B&B accommodation (in the Best B&B or Guest House Experience category), and Links House at Royal Dornoch, which has 15 bedrooms and suites as well as a restaurant (Best Hotel Experience).

Taste North is supported by Venture North, the destination management organisation for Caithness and Sutherland.

There was a record turnout of 1700 at the eighth Taste North held at the East Caithness Community Facility in Wick last November, featuring more than 40 food, drink and craft exhibitors, professional chef and cocktail demonstrations and the Taste North Challenge for bakers of all ages.

Ellie Lamont, owner of Mackays Hotel and chairperson of Venture North, said: “Since we started in 2015, Taste North has experienced significant growth, evolving from a local food festival into a regional event used as a benchmark by others for their own events.

“The growth has been marked by increased attendance, a broader array of exhibitors and a diverse range of activities and workshops. The festival has successfully showcased the rich culinary heritage of northern Scotland, attracting food enthusiasts, local producers and tourists alike.

“This growth reflects not only the rising interest in local and sustainable food but also the festival’s effective promotion and the strong community support it enjoys. We are delighted to see the event recognised in HITA.”

Cathy Earnshaw, destination strategy manager for Venture North, said: “We are delighted that Taste North has been shortlisted alongside such other wonderful events and organisations in the Highlands, including our Venture North member Links House at Royal Dornoch and community associates Wick Development Trust and Dunnet Bay Escapes.”

A modern facilities block costing more than £450,000 opened at Wick River Campsite recently as part of a three-year upgrading programme. The new structure has replaced a prefabricated building that was demolished at the end of last year.

Wick Development Trust is operating the campsite as a community enterprise and profits will ultimately go towards local regeneration efforts.

Projects manager Sarah Lamb said: “Wick Development Trust has dedicated the last few years to transforming Wick River Campsite into a top-class facility, including the recently opened state-of-the-art toilet and facilities building that will significantly enhance the visitor experience for those staying in the area.

“The ultimate goal of these enhancements is to bring long-term benefits to the town by reinvesting profits into the local community, and ensuring the campsite plays a key role in the local tourism economy which supports many small businesses.

“We’re thrilled to be recognised for our efforts with our nomination under the Celebrating Thriving Communities category.”

Ellie Lamont, speaking in her capacity as development trust treasurer, said: “Being named a HITA finalist is a tremendous honour for Wick Development Trust.

“This recognition highlights our successful efforts enhancing the visitor experience through projects like Wick River Campsite and the Caithness at War trail. It underlines our commitment to community development, sustainability and promoting local heritage, showcasing the positive impact we’ve made on the region.”

Sheila Mackay of Dunnet Bay Escapes said: “My husband John and I are more than delighted that Dunnet Bay Escapes has been shortlisted for such a prestigious award for Best B&B or Guest House Experience.

“We absolutely love what we do with a passion, love the people and always try to exceed expectations for our guests.”

HITA winners will be announced at a gala dinner and awards ceremony in Inverness on October 4.

HITA chairman Calum Ross said: “Yet again, our finalists have shown just what incredible talent we have in tourism and hospitality across all the regions of the Highlands and Islands.

“Every year our judges find it more and more challenging to choose their shortlist and 2024 has been no exception.

“The innovation, dedication and desire to offer the very best experience of the Highlands and Islands to guests is inspirational and the awards help ensure we all strive for excellence, to create unforgettable experiences and deliver rewarding careers.

“I look forward to celebrating with all our finalists on October 4. It will be a wonderful occasion and a well-deserved night off.”

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.