Three in a row for Rachel and her team

1:41pm Monday 25th August 2008

RACHEL Brown and her team have been shortlisted for the third year in a row for a major tourism award.

Rachel is the manager at Congleton Tourist Information Centre, (TIC), which is based at Congleton Town Hall.

The centre is one of five finalists competing for the title of North West Tourist Information Centre of the Year.

Congleton is representing Cheshire in the final, against TICs from Keswick, Fleetwood and St Helens and Manchester Visitor Centre.

The final is part of England’s Northwest Tourism Awards, organised by the Northwest Regional Development Agency.

The finals take place at St George’s Hall in Liverpool on October 22.

Mystery shoppers contacted and visited Congleton TIC during the summer, and gave it the highest points for any TIC in Cheshire.

The centre is run by Rachel, Janet Heath, Annette Bradley and Helen Wood.

“We are delighted with the news we have been shortlisted for the award,” said Rachel.

“We work very hard selling the area to visitors, and are looking forward to the ceremony in Liverpool.”

The mystery shopper report graded TICs from across the North West for customer service when offering advice to the public via the telephone, emails and during face to face visits.

Staff were assessed on their knowledge, friendliness, appearance, range of stock and attention to detail.

“The Congleton TIC provides the focal point for residents and visitors,” said Cllr David Topping.

The enthusiasm and knowledge of the staff was a “credit to the borough,” he added.