Downhill Hostel Award for Innovation is richly deserved - Hillis
The efforts of local people in all areas of the hospitality industry must be encouraged, East Londonderry UUP Assembly member Norman Hillis maintains.
The MLA, who is a Board member of the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust, was speaking at the Rural Tourism Awards in Enniskillen where the region covered by the Trust provided two winners.
Mr. Hillis congratulated local couple William and McCall Gilfillan from the Downhill Hostel who were winners in the category of accommodation provider.
The MLA said: “William and his wife McCall have made marvellous changes to the Hostel they run at Downhill, taking great care to ensure the facility is operated in an environmentally friendly manner which is a tremendous credit to them.
“They have put so much time and effort into improving the facility and richly deserve the recognition the award brings.”
Mr. Hillis said that the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust, which covers Limavady, Coleraine, Ballymoney, Moyle, Larne, Newtownabbey and Ballymena, would continue to help stimulate rural tourism in an effect manner.
“Tourism generally is hugely important to the Northern Ireland economy and a significant employer in this area. I am passionate about ensuring that we continue to actively promote the region wherever and whenever possible.
“When I see the enthusiasm and commitment that people such as the Gilfillans have invested I am greatly encouraged. It is important that all those in the industry are supported in their endeavours.”
Mr. Hillis was also delighted that the Infrastructure Project award winner in Enniskillen was the Causeway Coastal Route covering Larne, Ballymena, Moyle and Coleraine areas.
He added: “This wonderful route is a magnet for visitors from all over the world and I welcome the fact that road signage has recently been improved to direct visitors to the route who are arriving in the Province from the Belfast ferry terminals and the George Best City Airport.”