AURORA Foxes, Minehead’s specialist college and training hotel, has won two awards at the Bristol Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards.

The first award, the Unsung Hero, was given to lead front of house tutor Zoe Furse.

Speaking of Ms Furse, organisers said: “Our winner ensures a quality guest experience while teaching hospitality skills to young adults with learning difficulties.

“Our hero is held in incredibly high regard throughout their hotel. Their ability to manage and lead a successful service while teaching young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is nothing short of remarkable.”

The second award won by Aurora Foxes was The Future of Hospitality, which was a new award category this year. 

Aurora Foxes principal Mark Costello said: “I’m so proud of everyone. Zoe is a huge asset to our team and thoroughly deserves her award, and getting the Future of Hospitality special award was the icing on the cake for us.”

Awards director Nell Barrington said: “Each year these awards get more and more competitive. 

“They really do showcase the finest experiences visitors to the county can have and provide a truly inspirational bucket list.”

Zoe and the rest of the team at Aurora Foxes will now be considered for the South West Tourism Excellence awards, which will be presented at Exeter University in March, 2024.

They are also hoping to be invited to represent Bristol Bath and Somerset in the 2024 national Visit England Awards.

For more information about Aurora Foxes, visit www.theauroragroup.co.uk/foxes.