Vote for Matthew!

January 30th 2015

Beamish’s Matthew Henderson is in the national final of VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar – and he needs your vote!

Matthew, our Engagement and Participation Team Assistant, is one of just 10 people across the country to be shortlisted from hundreds of entries.

Online voting is now open – click here! We’re asking people to cast a vote for Matthew, who’s always there, with a smile, ready to help visitors and colleagues.

Matthew said:

‘I couldn’t believe it when I was shortlisted, it was a real surprise and it’s an honour to even get this far.

I love working at Beamish, every day is different and you can’t help but feel a real passion for the Museum. All the staff and volunteers have helped me so much since I first started at the Museum so I’d love to win the award as a thank you for them.’

Matthew reached the final of VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar Award, supported by the Daily Mirror, after winning Visit County Durham (VCD)’s first Tourism Superstar Award in 2014.

Richard Evans, Beamish’s Director said:

‘Matthew is certainly a tourism superstar in everything he does and it’s fantastic to see his efforts recognised.

He’s passionate about Beamish and always goes the extra mile for visitors and colleagues alike. It will be a huge honour for Matthew, Beamish and the whole region if he wins.

Please vote for Matthew!’

Matthew is following in the footsteps of Anthony Gales, Beamish’s Head of Operations, who was runner-up in the national Tourism Superstar award in 2013.

Melanie Sensicle, Chief Executive of VCD, which nominated Matthew for the VisitEngland award, said:

“We’re delighted that Matthew has been shortlisted for this prestigious national award.

It highlights the strength of VCD’s Durham Tourism Superstar award and reinforces the fact that we have many experienced and passionate staff within tourism related businesses in the county.

I’d urge people to not only vote for Matthew, but to spread the word to their family and friends to do the same, so that he gets the recognition he deserves.”

Matthew started working at Beamish three years ago, aged 17, on a six-week college placement and went on to complete an apprenticeship. His role includes helping with events, communications and researching on-site activities and he always puts our visitors first.

The VisitEngland Tourism Superstar Award recognises the dedication and passion of those working in the tourism industry, who go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure visitors to England have a priceless experience.

VisitEngland has teamed up with national newspaper The Daily Mirror to host an online public vote. A short film of all nominees can be seen on www.mirroronline.co.uk where readers can vote for their favourite. Voting closes on 28th February. Please vote for Matthew!