Isle of Wight Tourism has beaten off 300 other exhibitors to scoop the prestigious Exhibitor Excellence Award at this year's British Travel Trade Fair.

The fair at the NEC Birmingham in March was themed on Island produce, with the team promoting Island beers, wines, meats, mustards, cakes and chutneys.

The head of tourism services on the Island, Tim Addison, said: "Being placed ahead of all other UK destinations at such a key national exhibition is a great motivator and gives us the confidence that we are on the right track."

British Travel Trade Fair event manager Graeme Barnett said: "The overall participation award recognises an exhibitor or organisation that demonstrates an all-round ability to attract visitors on to their stand and deal with those visitors in a professional businesslike manner. Competition for this award is always very intense and the judging panel felt that the Isle of Wight Tourism stand stood out."

Island council tourism spokeswoman Councillor Peggy Jarman said: "It was fantastic to see the stand so busy and attracting so much attention.

"The focus was very much on Island breaks and the wonderful quality Island produce."