Saturday, July 5, 2025
An 86-year-old volunteer at Raby Castle has been honored as Durham Tourism Superstar for 2025, a title that recognizes his exceptional contribution to the region’s tourism industry. Jimmy Nicol, who has been volunteering at Raby Castle since 2018, is known for his unwavering dedication as a Room Steward. He meets visitors with warmth and enthusiasm, sharing his vast knowledge about the castle and its history.
Nicol’s dedication to Raby Castle and his role as an ambassador for the entire North East region earned him the top spot in the Durham Tourism Superstar competition. The award, which is organized annually by Visit County Durham, part of Durham County Council’s tourism service, is designed to celebrate individuals who play an integral role in making Durham a top destination for travelers. Nicol emerged victorious after securing the most public votes in the competition, surpassing several other remarkable nominees.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to receive this award,” Nicol said after being announced as the winner. “Raby Castle holds a special place in my heart, and it’s a privilege to work there. I get to meet so many wonderful people from around the world, and it’s always a joy to share the castle’s rich history with them. I would also like to extend my congratulations to all the other nominees, who are all incredibly deserving of recognition.”
A Symbol of Dedication and Community Impact
The Durham Tourism Superstar award not only recognizes an individual’s efforts but also highlights the critical role tourism plays in Durham’s economy. Cllr Lyndsey Fox, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, expressed her pride in the county’s tourism sector. “Durham’s tourism industry is vital to the local economy, bringing in £1.38 billion last year and attracting over 21 million visitors,” Fox explained. “The Durham Tourism Superstar award is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the individuals who make a real difference in the visitor experience, and Jimmy is an excellent example of that. His enthusiasm and commitment to Raby Castle and County Durham are inspiring.”
Nicol was one of five finalists for this prestigious award, each nominated for their exceptional contributions to the tourism sector. Alongside Nicol, the other finalists were Andrew Ross from Walking with the Ghosts of Durham, Glynn Hodgson from High Farm Holiday Park, Tom Allen from Locomotion, and Julie Maycock from Beamish Hall. The finalists’ wide range of experiences and expertise speaks to the diverse talent within the tourism industry in County Durham.
What stood out was the age diversity among the finalists. With ages ranging from 18-year-old Daniel to 86-year-old Jimmy Nicol, it highlighted that people of all ages are making an impact on the tourism sector in the region. Whether they are young, energetic newcomers or seasoned veterans with decades of experience, all of the finalists are dedicated to enriching the visitor experience in Durham.
Honoring Past Winners and the Tradition of Excellence
Durham has a proud history of producing national Tourism Superstars. Over the past decade, three individuals from County Durham have gone on to win the prestigious National Tourism Superstar title. Previous winners include Emily Hope from Beamish Museum, Lillian Groves from Durham Cathedral, and Matthew Henderson, also from Beamish Museum. Last year’s winner, Wendy Wilshere from Kynren, placed second in the national final, further emphasizing the strength of Durham’s tourism workforce.
Duncan Peake, Chair of Visit County Durham, congratulated the finalists for this year’s award and emphasized the role of tourism in the growth of the county’s economy. “The finalists for the Durham Tourism Superstar 2025 have all demonstrated outstanding dedication to their roles,” Peake said. “Jimmy Nicol, in particular, has been a fantastic ambassador for Raby Castle. His passion and energy have helped to shape the visitor experience, and he truly represents the spirit of Durham tourism. I want to congratulate him and the other finalists and wish him the best of luck as he competes in the National Tourism Superstar competition.”
The Importance of Tourism in County Durham
Visit County Durham, the organization behind the Tourism Superstar competition, works to support and promote the region as a key destination for both national and international visitors. Established in 2006, Visit County Durham coordinates various tourism activities and marketing efforts, working alongside local businesses, government agencies, and tourism organizations to ensure the county’s tourism industry thrives. The organization is responsible for destination management, marketing, and place branding, ensuring that Durham’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty are showcased to the world.
Tourism is a crucial economic driver in County Durham, providing jobs, generating revenue, and supporting the growth of local businesses. The industry also creates opportunities for residents to engage with the wider community, whether through employment, volunteering, or cultural exchange. With attractions like Durham Cathedral, Beamish Museum, Raby Castle, and Locomotion, Durham is home to some of the UK’s most iconic tourist spots, and tourism continues to play a vital role in the county’s ongoing development.
A Bright Future for Tourism in County Durham
As Durham’s Tourism Superstar, Jimmy Nicol’s win represents more than just individual recognition—it underscores the importance of community engagement and dedication in the tourism industry. His victory is a testament to the hard work and passion of those who help make County Durham an unforgettable place to visit. As Nicol prepares to represent Durham in the National Tourism Superstar competition, his story highlights the vital contributions of people across the region who work tirelessly to enhance the visitor experience.
County Durham is poised to continue growing as a top destination for travelers, and the success of the Tourism Superstar competition serves as a reminder of the incredible individuals who make it all possible. Whether through personal commitment, volunteerism, or professional dedication, it is the people of Durham who create the unique experiences that keep visitors coming back year after year.
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