A TRIO of East Lancashire workers have proved good things really do come in threes.

For they were among 16 members of Lancashire's tourism industry who emerged victorious at the annual Lancashire Excellence in Tourism Skills Awards (LETS) 2006.

The Oscar-style ceremony held at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel, Clayton-le-Moors, championed excellence in the county's individuals and organisations connected to the tourism and hospitality industry.

And three East Lancashire businesses triumphed from a shortlist of 70 at the event organised by Lancashire and Blackpool Tourist Board.

They included Steven Allman, who for the last five years has worked as kitchen porter at The Spread Eagle, Riverside Restaurant in Sawley.

Steven, in his 30s, was highly commended in the Unsung Hero section following a nomination by his colleagues, including restaurant owners Nigel and Ysanne Williams.

Mr Williams, 49, said: "He always gives 100 per cent and is always willing to help a member of staff no matter how busy he is and we think he's indispensible.

"These awards are great as they recognise people who may not nornally get recognition."

James Wilson, 33, co-proprietor of coffee shop and restaurant The Fat Giraffe, Padiham, won the best new entrant to the industry.

The former engineer, disilusioned with the profession, retrained as a chef and in April 2005 opened the Church Street venue with his girlfriend Joanne and her mum Ann Royle.

He said: "My girlfriend nominated me and I am really pleased to win.

"It is the result of a lot of hard work we have put into it.

"I really enjoy the creative side and the positive feedback from customers."

Completing the trio is Roseann Hollis, who has been waitressing at Weezos restaurant at The Old Toll House, Clitheroe since it opened last year.

Roseann, of Black Lane Croft, Clitheroe, was named winner in the Excellence in Customer Service category.