Gem of a journey

ALL aboard the campaign: Northern Rail launches the awards

OLDHAMERS can give their favourite local places a helping hand by nominating them as part of a new awards campaign aimed at recognising the best on Northern Rail’s network.

The project is aimed at highlighting and driving tourism, customers and footfall to the best of the borough’s quality restaurants, shops with a personal touch, well-loved attractions, beauty spots and great journeys by foot, bike, car or rail.

Ian Bevan, managing director at Northern Rail, said: “We all know of great shops, bars, restaurants and places to go on our own doorsteps, but we want people to share these hidden gems and help them thrive.

“The Northern Rail network covers a huge area and there are hundreds, if not thousands, of great pubs, restaurants, attractions, museums, walks, views and even journeys out in the countryside which are largely undiscovered but all within easy reach of many people.

“We want to find out about the very best of what’s out there across our network so we can shout about it and let people know.”

All nominations will be listed on the Northern Rail website, while those dubbed best in the region will be featured in a special campaign.

Network finalists will compete against six other regions for the chance to be named overall winners or highly commended, receiving a plaque commemorating their win and appearing on posters across the Northern network.

Categories include best attraction, best shop, best hotel, guesthouse or B&B, best restaurant or café/takeaway, best journey (by bike, foot, rail or car), and best beauty spot.

Nominate your favourite at www. northernrail.org/hidden gems

Everyone making a nomination will be entered in a prize draw to win a weekend enjoying some of the best hidden gems in the North. Entry closing date is midnight on September 9.