The region’s biggest awards for the tourism industry has seen a 34 per cent increase in applications since the event was taken over by NewcastleGateshead Initiative in 2012.
A total of 98 businesses have submitted applications for the North East England Tourism Awards 2013 compared to 73 last year, with 51 making the short-list.
The awards ceremony will take place on November 21 at St James’ Park.
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