A TOURISM ‘superstar’ who has worked ‘tirelessly’ throughout the pandemic needs the public’s help to win a prestigious award.

Ahmed Abdelaziz, who works for Windermere Lake Cruises, is one of ten finalists- the North West and Cumbria’s only- in VisitEngland’s highly prized Tourism Superstar Award, which celebrates those who go the extra mile to give tourists an amazing visitor experience.

In between working hard to give customers a warm welcome to Windermere, Ahmed has been on the “campaign trail” urging people to cast a vote in the competition which is decided by public ballot.

“It has been great fun to be involved in the competition,” said Ahmed, who has worked in Ambleside for five years where he oversees the self-drive boats.

“It was a very proud moment to be nominated for the Tourism Superstar award and it would be wonderful to win it as a recognition of all the hard work the team at Windermere Lake Cruises has put in over the last two years.”

The Westmorland Gazette:

The father of two is originally from Egypt but left for England when terror attacks affected the Egyptian tourism industry.

“It has been really nice to hear visitors and residents say they have voted for me,” he said.

“I love living and working here in the Lake District and I think it shows! I just try to put a smile on people’s faces and it’s great to know they appreciate it!”

Nigel Wilkinson, managing director of Windermere Lake Cruises, said: “Throughout his time with us, Ahmed has never failed to ensure customers and colleagues are always smiling. He exudes enthusiasm which is contagious!

“He worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure he was protecting Windermere Lake Cruises’ passengers and staff and adhering to all the Covid-19 secure operating procedures the company put in place. We know from their comments our customers have really appreciated his efforts!”

The Westmorland Gazette:

Now in its 10th year, Tourism Superstar is run in partnership with The Mirror newspaper to recognise those who are passionate about their work in tourism.

Andrew Stokes, England Director for VisitEngland said: "Whether creating a memorable stay in a seaside hotel, adding a touch of showbiz to a tour or an attraction or making sure everyone’s needs are catered for, these individuals truly go the extra mile in their role as tourism ambassadors."

Voting closes at midnight on March 22.

You can vote for Ahmed here

The winner will be announced in the Mirror Newspaper at the end of English Tourism Week on March 26.