Vote now for County Durham Tourism Superstar of 2024

Voting has now opened to find the person who shows the greatest passion for the county and a real dedication to giving visitors a priceless experience.

Judges have drawn up a shortlist of superstars from which members of the public can choose the county’s winner, who will go on to represent Durham in a national competition.

The nominees include a cathedral visitor experience assistant, a pair of Viking archers from Kynren, a museum welcome team co-ordinator, a historic house catering supervisor, a castle hotel ambassador, and a creative storytelling team transforming a city centre high street.

The Durham winner will go forward to a national competition in which the county has a remarkable record of success – its champion has been crowned VisitEngland’s national Tourism Superstar in three of the last seven years in which the crown has been contested.

So who is going to carry the county’s flag this year?

These are the nominations for the shortlisted candidates, with the voting links below:

Voting is now open, vote below for your winner. Only one vote per person will be counted.

Vote closes Friday June 26 at 11.59pm.

Aiden Brewer (Image: Supplied)

Aidan Brewer – Durham Cathedral Visitor Experience Assistant

Aidan is a Visitor Experience Assistant at Durham Cathedral, where he plays a vital role in welcoming visitors from across the world and bringing the site’s rich history and spiritual significance to life.

Having first joined as a Volunteer Welcome Steward in 2022, Aidan quickly stood out for his exceptional enthusiasm and preparation, arriving with an in-depth knowledge of the cathedral far beyond expectations.

Today, he leads a wide range of tours, including specialist experiences of the cathedral’s upper levels and rare collections – sharing his passion in a way that is consistently engaging, informative, and memorable.

Aidan’s dedication shines through in every interaction.

Visitors frequently describe him as the highlight of their visit, praising his animated storytelling and deep knowledge.

He has embraced every opportunity to develop his skills, becoming a trusted and respected member of the team who delivers outstanding experiences time and time again.

His ability to connect people with the cathedral’s heritage and mission ensures that every guest feels welcomed and inspired.

More than anything, Aidan embodies Durham Cathedral’s tradition of hospitality.

He goes above and beyond to make every visitor feel valued, whether answering questions, offering guidance, or simply greeting them with a warm smile.

His journey from volunteer to expert guide reflects his commitment, passion, and genuine love for sharing this iconic landmark, making him a truly deserving Tourism Superstar.

Paul Marsey and Bethaney Shears (Image: Supplied)

Paul Marsey and Bethaney Shears – Kynren Archers Volunteers

Paul and Bethaney are long-standing volunteers – known as Archers at Kynren, the spectacular live show that brings England’s history to life in Durham.

Since joining in 2016, they have become integral to both the performance and community spirit of Kynren, contributing not only as performers but also as ambassadors for the region.

Bethaney plays a key role as a Dance Team Leader, supporting fellow volunteers and performing in dynamic scenes, while Paul captivates audiences in the Show Team, including portraying Harold Hardrada in a dramatic battle sequence.

Their passion extends far beyond the stage.

Together, they represent Kynren at events across the North East, often in full Viking costume, promoting the show and the wider Durham tourism offer with infectious enthusiasm.

They continually develop new skills, such as Makaton training and blacksmithing – to enhance their contributions, and they actively support and encourage fellow volunteers, helping to create the inclusive and supportive culture that defines Kynren.

Now both employed by Kynren, Paul as an IT Technician and Bethaney as a Finance Assistant, they continue to volunteer alongside their roles, demonstrating extraordinary dedication.

They are shining examples of how volunteering can lead to personal growth and career opportunities, while their energy, commitment, and love for Kynren make them outstanding ambassadors for Durham and truly deserving Tourism Superstars.

Philippa Heywood – The Bowes Museum Welcome Team co-ordinator (Image: Supplied)

Philippa Heywood – The Bowes Museum Welcome Team Co-ordinator

Philippa Heywood is the Welcome Team Co-ordinator at The Bowes Museum, where she leads an 18-strong team dedicated to delivering exceptional visitor experiences.

As the public face of the museum, Philippa ensures that every guest receives a warm and memorable welcome, whether they are first-time visitors or returning members.

Her role spans front-of-house operations, ticketing, memberships, and health and safety, all of which she manages with professionalism, efficiency, and care.

Philippa is known as the beating heart of the Welcome Team, bringing warmth, enthusiasm, and expertise to everything she does.

She handles challenges with calmness and good humour, from resolving day-to-day issues to responding to emergencies, all while supporting and inspiring her team.

Her deep understanding of visitor needs – supported by her management of the museum’s 20,000-strong membership database—allows her to continuously enhance the visitor journey.

Her passion for the museum shines through in her interactions, whether she is presenting gallery highlights like the iconic Silver Swan or engaging directly with visitors.

Philippa’s leadership has played a key role in securing national recognition for the museum’s outstanding welcome.

Her commitment to excellence, empathy, and teamwork makes her an exceptional candidate for Tourism Superstar.

Kyle Gregory of Ushaw (Image: Supplied)

Kyle Gregory – Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens Catering Supervisor

Kyle Gregory is the Catering Supervisor at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens, where he plays a central role in shaping the visitor experience.

Overseeing the day-to-day catering operations, Kyle ensures high standards of food service, safety, and presentation, while also working closely with colleagues to deliver seamless events and hospitality.

His professionalism and reliability underpin the smooth running of a busy and varied visitor attraction.

What truly sets Kyle apart is his exceptional rapport with people.

Known for his warmth, humour, and genuine kindness, he creates a welcoming atmosphere that visitors remember long after their visit.

Regular guests often ask for him by name, a testament to the personal connections he builds and the care he shows to everyone he meets.

Whether chatting with visitors in the café or supporting events, Kyle consistently goes above and beyond to make every experience special.

Behind the scenes, Kyle is equally valued for his support of colleagues and volunteers.

He takes time to mentor new team members, helping them grow in confidence and feel part of the team.

His positivity, dedication, and natural ability to connect with people make him a standout member of staff and a true ambassador for Ushaw.

Kyle’s passion for hospitality and commitment to excellence make him a highly deserving Tourism Superstar.

Phil Reilly (Image: Supplied)

Phil Reilly – Lumley Castle Hotel Business Development Manager

Phil is an outstanding member of the team at Lumley Castle Hotel, with a passion for Durham that shines through in everything he does.

As a recently trained Welcome to Durham Ambassador, he consistently goes above and beyond to showcase the very best the region has to offer.

His knowledge of local history, combined with his enthusiasm and professionalism, helps bring Durham’s stories to life.

Whether engaging with hotel guests, supporting events, or working with partners across the sector, Phil promotes the region with authenticity and pride.

What truly sets Phil apart is his ability to connect with people.

His warm, approachable nature ensures visitors feel welcome, valued, and inspired, leaving with a lasting positive impression of both Lumley Castle and Durham.

Phil’s dedication, energy, and genuine love for the region make him a fantastic ambassador for Durham’s visitor economy and a highly deserving Tourism Superstar finalist.

Phil Reilly represents the very best of Durham hospitality.

He goes above and beyond to create memorable experiences, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm to inspire visitors to explore more of the county.

His commitment to promoting the county, supporting local businesses, and delivering exceptional service makes a real difference to every visitor journey.

Seven Stories (Image: Supplied)

Two Tales Team by Seven Stories

The Two Tales team at Seven Stories has created an innovative and inspiring visitor experience in the heart of Durham, delivering the UK’s first national museum-led high street story shop.

Blending books, storytelling, creativity, and local heritage, the team welcomes families, schools, authors, and visitors from across the UK and beyond into a space where imagination thrives.

Through workshops, events, and hands-on experiences, they bring stories to life while championing Durham as a centre for creativity and culture.

Their work has redefined what a museum experience can be—accessible, interactive, and deeply rooted in the local community.

The team supports people of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring that everyone feels included and inspired.

From nurturing emerging writers and illustrators to hosting school visits and major projects, they play a vital role in developing creative talent and connecting visitors to the stories of the region.

Recognised nationally as a model for high street regeneration, Two Tales attracts visitors to Durham City, boosting the city’s cultural profile.

The team’s warmth, innovation, and commitment to inclusion make them outstanding ambassadors for the region.

Their work not only enriches the visitor experience but also leaves a lasting impression, making them highly deserving Tourism Superstars.

The voting links are now live located here.