LAST week, I had the pleasure of attending The Visit Britain Awards for Excellence at Liverpool’s Titanic Hotel.
I was there along with my wife Julie, my Stepson Kev Monks and the lady who nominated me, Laura MacDonald, to pick up my award as Tourism Superstar 2024.
As we walked into a room of posh ball gowns and tuxedos, we were entertained by a wonderful string quartet.
Each of us were given a Smart LED wristband that flashed in tune to the opening musical pieces that of course included some of Liverpool’s most famous songs.
We enjoyed our lovely meal and the ceremony began presented, by the Hotel Inspector herself the wonderful Alex Polizzi.
After the opening speeches, the awards began proper.
It was me who would pick up this special award of Tourism Superstar 2024, unlike the rest of the successful candidates who did not know what category they would win by (gold, silver or bronze), I was lucky enough to already know that I was a winner.
Because of this my biog was featured in the PDF programme,
It reads like this: “Tourism Superstar 2024 – The annual Tourism Superstar competition sees 10 finalists put to the public vote to find one winner who has gone above and beyond in their job to give their visitors the best experience.
“This year the crown went to Pete Chambers (BEM), volunteer director of the Coventry Music Museum and a lifelong music enthusiast and journalist.
“He established the museum a decade ago to commemorate and honour Coventry’s music legacy.
“Operating four days-a-week, Pete manages most aspects of the museum including securing exhibits, handling finances and managing a team of volunteers.
“His passion attracts local artists to donate artifacts, like Jerry Dammers’ “Ghost Town” organ and car from The Specials’.
“Pete’s exceptional hospitality includes personalised experiences, such as assembling a special package for an autistic music fan.
“The museum consistently ranks as Coventry’s top attraction on TripAdvisor, a testament to Pete’s dedication and generosity.”
So I excitedly stepped up to collect my award. First, they showed my official video on the huge screens, again I was lucky enough to be the only one afforded this luxury.
Proud? you best believe I was, and with a huge round of applause and to the sounds of The Specials blasting out, I walked on the huge stage to be greeted (and kissed) by Alex herself.
As I was presented with my amazing award, no speeches were allowed, but I held my trophy up like a champion.
After the official photos were taken I walked back to my seat and so many people were congratulating me and more importantly telling me they would come and visit the museum and talking about Coventry.
For me representing Coventry was the most wonderful part of the night.
So from then on we could relax and support the other amazing 49 winner in the many categories.
The night finished with what else a great Beatles tribute band then it was carriages back to the hotel.
Thanks to you, if you voted, you made this happen for me and Coventry.
