Bournemouth Writing Festival was among the winners at last night’s Dorset Tourism Awards.
It was named Tourism Event and Festival of the Year along with fellow gold winner, the Arts by the Sea Festival.
Other winners at the event included Bournemouth’s Marsham Court Hotel, which hosted the awards, Compton Acres cafe and tearooms, the Christchurch Harbour Hotel and also The Jetty in Christchurch.
Professor Peter Jones received the award for outstanding contribution to Dorset Tourism.
Bournemouth Writing Festival was launched two years ago and attracts attendees from across the UK, with 30 per cent living outside Dorset.
Its mission is to inspire and support writers of all levels, offering 100 free and ticketed workshops, talks, walks and networking opportunities in venues across Bournemouth town centre.
A key part of its ethos is accessibility and inclusivity through free workshops for marginalised or disadvantaged members of the community, international students and its Dorset schools and home-educated writing competition.
Dominic Wong, Festival Director, said: “Winning gold at the Dorset Tourism Awards is an incredible honour, especially with all the fantastic events happening across our wonderful county.
“To win gold so soon after our inception shows the power of community, collaboration and what can happen with a bit of passion and energy.
“This award belongs to our wonderful community of writers, attendees, volunteers, speakers, venues, sponsors, and cheerleaders who support us and make the festival what it is.
“I set out to create an event that welcomes everyone, whether they’re just starting their writing journey or are seasoned professionals regardless of their age, ability or background, and to see it grow so rapidly in just 2.5 years is truly remarkable.”
This year’s festival takes place on 25th, 26th and 27th April in venues across Bournemouth town centre, including Pavilion Dance, Russell Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, St Peter’s Church and Patch.
A free Poetry Hub in the Bandstand in the Lower Gardens will offer family-friendly poetry sessions and activities.
A Romance Writing Festival will take place at the Royal Bath Hotel on 18th October.