FOUR East Lancashire businesses took home trophies at this year’s prestigious Lancashire Tourism Awards.

The Spread Eagle near Mellor was given the Taste Lancashire Pub of the Year award.

The pub was taken over five years ago by mother and son Lesley and Stuart Clark, who carried out an extensive refurbishment in 2016.

This included separating the bar and dining area, with expanding the bar and aimed on bringing more live performances to the business.

Samlesbury Hall was given the Wedding Venue of the Year award.

The historic hall in Preston New Road has recently put a lot of effort into becoming a highly sought-after wedding venue.

Whalley Warm and Dry, an outdoor clothing and shoe specialist was given the Retail Experience of the Year accolade.

The Fence Gate Lodge, in Fence, was given the Lancashire Perfect Stay award.

The four businesses, along with several other Lancashire-based companies were invited to the grand award ceremony at Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach Arena.

Blackpool-born professional ice-skater Daniel Whiston was guest presenter.

Rachel McQueen, chief executive of Marketing Lancashire, in her opening speech, said: “There are many reasons why almost 69 million visitors a year choose to come to Lancashire – for our events, attractions, hotels, pubs, restaurants, our stunning coastline, beautiful countryside, heritage, culture and lots more.

“Lancashire’s amazing tourism businesses and the people who run them.

“The Lancashire Tourism Awards is about recognising the quality and talent that we have in our tourism industry.

“We must also acknowledge the levels of investment businesses are making; investment that enables us to constantly raise our game and gives Lancashire standout against the competition.”

Other businesses nominated for awards included the Butlers Arms in Pleasington, Air Unlimited Burnley, Wigwam Holidays, Holiday Inn Express Burnley, Rossendale Holiday Cottages, The Potting Shed in Longridge and Dottie’s Wafflery in Samlesbury.