Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway has been shortlisted for a national tourism award.

The attraction has been recognised in the Heritage Railway category of the British Coach Tourism Awards (BCTAs).

The awards recognise the very best coach tour operators in the business, along with the most coach-friendly attractions, destinations, hotels and suppliers.

Peter Brendling, general manager of Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, said: "We are very proud that we have been nominated. I think it comes down to the dedication and enthusiasm of all the staff."

He said staff have "a real passion" for their jobs.

Another Cumbrian attraction, Ullswater ‘Steamers’ has been recognised in the river and inland cruise operator category of the awards.

Rachel Bell, head of marketing and development at Lake District Estates said: "To be shortlisted in such prestigious awards for both of our heritage visitor attractions, is a fantastic achievement and shows how hard the teams have worked and contributed, to be recognised in these respective categories.

"We look forward to finding out the results in March, and to yet another exciting year ahead for tourism in Cumbria."

This year’s entries were judged by group tourism and travel editor Jessamy Chapman, along with the Coach Tourism Association’s Chris Wales, former Epsom Coaches MD Steve Whiteway, UKinbound’s Antony Amos, and Blue Badge Guide Leon Preston.

Winners will be announced on March 21 at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham.

The evening is highly regarded amongst the industry and attended by over 400 coach tour operators and suppliers every year.