A NORTH-East grandfather shortlisted for a national award has been touring the region in a final push to clinch votes.

Alan Anderson, senior park ranger at Auckland Castle Trust, is in the closing stages of his bid to be named VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar 2017, representing County Durham among 10 finalists from across the UK.

This weekend he called in to Bishop Auckland Rugby Club and Football Club, asking supporters of both teams to help him top the public vote, which closes at 5pm on Wednesday, March 29.

The sporting visits capped off a month of campaigning, which saw Alan touring some of the region’s biggest tourism attractions, including Locomotion Railway Museum in Shildon and Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle.

Along the way he received support from two previous Tourism Superstar winners – Matthew Henderson from Beamish Museum and Lilian Groves from Durham Cathedral.

The 63-year-old, who has tended the parkland and grounds around the historic Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland for more than 17 years, has also been backed by The Bishop of Durham, The Right Reverend Paul Butler.

Alan, who still opens the gates of Auckland Park every morning at 5am, said: “The support I have received over the past month has been incredible and to have the backing of the previous winners and the Bishop of Durham means a lot to me.

“It’s an absolute honour to be nominated for VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar award and I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has voted so far. I would be extremely proud to bring the title back to County Durham for a hat-trick year.”

VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar launched in 2012 to recognise the dedication and passion of those working in the tourism industry. It is awarded annually to an individual who goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure visitors to England have an unforgettable experience.

Alan was put forward for the national award by destination management organisation Visit County Durham, after winning its own Durham Tourism Superstar competition in 2016.

He was originally nominated by his colleagues at regional charity, Auckland Castle Trust, because of his ‘warm and engaging personality and enthusiastic dedication to his demanding outdoor role’.

For more information or to vote visit thisisdurham.com/vote.

Voting closes at 5pm on March 29.