Beamish Museum Engager Ian Bean has been shortlisted for Durham Tourism Superstar 2023!
A public vote is now open and everyone is being urged to “Vote for Ian”, who has been nominated for Durham Tourism Superstar for his hard work and passion for the museum over the past 37 years.
Without doubt, Ian is a true Tourism Superstar – from penny farthing riding and Suffragette rallies to helping with sessions for people living with dementia and appearing in the Downton Abbey movie – Ian is devoted to ensuring all Beamish visitors enjoy an unforgettable experience.
An Edwardian Engager bringing history to life, Ian has also restored vintage vehicles, supported events, been a Cluedo Beamish edition suspect and a TikTok sensation!
Ian, 1900s Town Engager at Beamish, said: “To be shortlisted for Durham Tourism Superstar is a fantastic honour, particularly as the sector is filled with such talented and enthusiastic people.
“Being born in County Durham, I am proud to live and work in this glorious part of the world and am always encouraging others to experience its attractions as it contains such natural beauty, coupled with a long history and a vibrant present.
“I think of my shortlisting as recognition not only for my contribution to Durham Tourism, but also for the hard work and dedication of all my colleagues here at Beamish Museum.”
Ian joined the museum as a volunteer in 1986, originally planning to help for one or two days of the year and ended up being involved for one or two days a week! Four decades later he’s a museum Engager, Projects’ Director for the Friends of Beamish and his family are also involved in the museum. Ian is a true Tourism Superstar!
The Durham Tourism Superstar competition recognises the dedication and passion of those who work in the county’s tourism industry and ensure visitors are given an exceptional experience.
Judges have drawn up a shortlist of potential Tourism Superstars, and now it’s over to members of the public to crown their Durham Tourism Superstar 2023. The winner will go on to represent Durham in a national Tourism Superstar competition.
Ian has been shortlisted alongside Jonathan Raper from Teesdale Cheesemakers, Michelle Fenwick of Raby Castle, Peter Robinson from Locomotion and the Diggerland Park Marshals from Diggerland in Durham, The competition is run by Visit County Durham, in association with The Northern Echo.
Voting for Durham Tourism Superstar is now open on The Northern Echo’s website, and runs until midday on 7th July 2023. The winner will be announced on 18th July 2023.
Click here to vote for Ian! Thank you!