Prestigious tourism award for Torquay’s top B&B owner

Torbay guest houseowner and leading tourism figure Andy Banner-Price has been presented with a prestigious award.

Andy was asked to be the guest speaker at the Devon Tourism Awards, a glitzy annual black tie event, held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Plymouth with 300 guests, many receiving awards for being judged the best in Devon across a variety of categories. 

Andy, who was also the guest speaker at the Torbay Weekly Naturally Inspiring Business Awards a couple of years ago, talked about how his multi-award winning 25 Boutique B&B in Torquay which he co-owns and runs with his husband Julian, providing a world-class customer experience.

Tying in with places he likes to visit himself, he gave examples of other companies providing the same little touches, with an attention to detail and offering personalised experiences to make their customers feel special and valued.  

Having suffered from throat cancer just two years ago, Andy also touched on his cancer journey and the importance of making the most of life and living for today.  Andy is currently cancer free and doing well.  

Above: Andy Banner-Price speaking at the Devon Tourism Awards. Image: Nick Williams

The night ended with a complete surprise for him when it came to the Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award.  

The description of the winner made mention of his multiple awards wins both nationally and as Best B&B in the World, his training and mentoring of other businesses, talking at seminars and webinars, and even hosting VIP guests such as Dame Joanna Lumley.  He is also a board member of the English Riviera BID Company.

Andy said afterwards: “Gosh, what a surprise!  It’s amazing to be honoured by my peers for the work I do to help support and promote tourism on the English Riviera, in Devon and even nationally.  

“I absolutely love the hospitality industry and have recently set up a training and consultancy company to help support other businesses to improve their customer experience as I realise I have so much knowledge of the industry to give.  I really appreciate the judging panel recognising me in this way.”

The award was presented by Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, who said: “ Andy’s passion for perfection and delivering excellent customer service to each and every customer has to be admired and it is wonderful to see that passion being shared to benefit many businesses through his new company Neon Duck.’’