Lincoln Cathedral has been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Lincolnshire Tourism Excellence Awards.

The announcement was made in front of more than 200 guests at an event hosted by BBC Radio Lincolnshire’s Melvyn Prior at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Lincoln.

The awards are now in their second year and recognise the quality of the visitor experience and customer service and are designed to promote excellence within the tourism sector. Lincoln Cathedral was shortlisted by a panel of judges, with the final decision being based on a public vote.

The Very Revd Christine Wilson, Dean of Lincoln, said she was delighted with the award and paid tribute to the team at the Cathedral, “Here at the Cathedral we work hard to promote an inspiring visitor experience and a warm welcome. This award is a wonderful recognition of the dedication of our staff and volunteers in making that happen,” she said.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that took the time to vote for us in the awards,” she added.

Lincoln Cathedral is currently in the middle of the multi-million pound transformation to create a new visitor centre in the Old Deanery, which will bring social and economic benefits to the whole city. Restoration and conservation work has already begun on the Romanesque Frieze, Gallery of Kings and Exchequergate Arch.

“It is an exciting time for the Cathedral and the work that is currently being undertaken will ensure that we can aspire to visitors’ expectations and welcome them to an outstanding place of worship, learning and heritage,” concluded the Dean.