A number of businesses and attractions in the Coalville area have figured prominently in the prestigious Leicestershire Tourism and Hospitality Awards for 2021.

Conkers and Moira Furnace have a number of nominations - but there are no shortage of finalists from Ashby and nearby.

Now in its 10th year, the awards, organised by Leicestershire Promotions, are the regional heat of the national Visit England Awards for Excellence.

Many of the winners will automatically proceed to the shortlist of the national awards.

In the Events section, North West Leicestershire District Council's innovative Cinema in the Park is one of the finalists.

The council attracted large crowds to Coalville Park last summer for film showings and picnics.

In the Experience section, the North West Leicestershire based Wild Minds nature has been nominated.

While, in the Attractions category, the 1620s House and Garden at Donington le Heath, one of the area's best known tourist venues, has been named.

But a newcomer in the shape of Escape Coalville - the town centre based business - is also a finalist.

The company's escape rooms offer great family fun or something to enjoy with friends,

Martin Peters, Chief Executive of Leicestershire Promotions said: "Having had to postpone the awards for the last couple of years, we are thrilled to be able to bring them back for the 2021 season."

"After the challenges of the last couple of years and the impact it has had on our industry and its people, the time is now right to come together andcelebrate the amazing places, experiences and individuals that have fought tirelessly to keep their doors open.

"The competition is extremely fierce and we look forward to revealing the deserved winners at the end of March.'

This year's winners will be announced at one-off new event Leicestershire Tourism Day.

The day will combine reflection on the challenges the industry has faced over the last two years and subsequent learnings, networking of the previous tourism forum with the celebration and presentation of the winners of the 2021 Tourism Awards in a fresh new format.

Leicestershire Tourism Day will take place during English Tourism Week at the Griffin Inn, Swithland between 2pm – 7pm on March 22.