The best of business has been honoured at the prestigious Highlands and Islands Tourism Awards (HITA) held at The Drumossie Hotel in Inverness.
This year’s awards were the biggest and best yet, with SSE lending its support as the main sponsor for the third year in a row.
Both nominations and ticket sales have been increasing year on year - and 2015 was no different.
A total of 44 finalists were named across 14 categories, including four new sections created to recognise tourism innovation, friendly pubs, outstanding sporting events, and individuals dedicated to hospitality.
George Baxter, of SSE, addressed the event and also presented the ‘Young Ambassador of the year’ award to Kyle Beattie, of Boots n Paddles, Inverness, who was singled out as a future star in the making.
George said: “The awards go from strength to strength, and this year was the biggest and best yet. It was a special privilege to present the award to Kyle, clearly a star in the making and for me he symbolised what this partnership is all about - working together to foster a sustainable future for the Highland people and economy.
“I have no doubt that Kyle will positively help shape that future with his unbounded enthusiasm and drive, he was a well-deserved winner.
“Energy and tourism are two of the most important sectors in the Highland economy. Our industries have grown up together, and supporting excellence and innovation in the Highlands in this way seems like a natural fit for SSE. As a responsible developer and operator, SSE is committed to continuing to work together and learn from each other – and to continue to deliver jobs and positive community development for the long term.”
This year’s ceremony was also attended by Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism Fergus Ewing, who presented the Ambassador of the Year award to Calum Ross.