Our superstar! Ahmed one of the runners-up in prestigious national tourism award

Windermere’s smiling superstar Ahmed Abdelaziz has narrowly missed out on being named VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar for 2022.

He was one of the runners up in the prestigious competition which celebrates those who go the extra mile to give tourists an amazing visitor experience.

Ahmed, who works with Windermere Lake Cruises overseeing self-hire boats, was one of ten finalists in the award which was decided by a public ballot. He was Cumbria and the North West’s only nominee.

“I’m absolutely delighted to have been involved in such a highly-prized award” says Ahmed. “It is great to have my hard work – and the hard work of the whole team at Windermere Lake Cruises – recognised in this way. It has been a wonderful boost as we head into the busy summer season!”

The father of two is originally from Egypt but left there for England when terror attacks affected the Egyptian tourism industry. He’s worked for Windermere Lake Cruises for the last five years and is known for his cheery personality and ever-present smile.

“It was a very proud moment to even be nominated for the Tourism Superstar award,” says Ahmed; “It was a real honour when you think of all the wonderful people who work in tourism across the country.”

Nigel Wilkinson, Managing Director of Windermere Lake Cruises, says: “We were absolutely thrilled that Ahmed was nominated for this incredible award."

Congratulations go to this year's winner - George Finlay, Farm Supervisor at Matlock Farm Park, Peak District and Derbyshire.

“Ahmed may not have won the title this year but we know that he, and all his colleagues who work for Windermere Lake Cruises, are tourism superstars in their own right!”

Nigel says: “Throughout his time with us, Ahmed has never failed to ensure customers and colleagues are always smiling. He exudes enthusiasm which is contagious!”

Ahmed worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure he was protecting Windermere Lake Cruises passengers and staff and adhering to all the Covid-19 secure operating procedures the company put in place.

“It’s really nice to know that visitors and residents have voted for me,” says Ahmed. “I love living and working here in the Lake District and I hope it shows! I just try to put a smile on people’s faces and it’s great to know they appreciate it!”

Now in its 10th year, Tourism Superstar is run in partnership with The Mirror newspaper to recognise those who are passionate about their work in tourism.