A TOURISM group has netted a national award.

Representatives of Teesside's Captain Cook Tourism Association won the award for best stand personnel at the British Travel Trade Fair (BTTF), in Birmingham. Dressed as Captain Cook, Naval marines and 18th Century women, they impressed the crowds and judges with their friendly service and theatrical delivery of information and advice.

Graeme Barnett, event manager of the BTTF, said: "I would like to congratulate Captain Cook Country. Getting the greatest value from an exhibition involves considerable advance planning, effective on-site operations and the essential follow-up after the event."

Hartlepool Borough Council's Tourism Development Officer, Jo Cole, said: "We like to think that Captain Cook Country is a friendly place that offers warm hospitality to any visitor who spends time in the region. Our performance was a great marketing effort."

The award represents a double success for Association member Hartlepool council, which took an award last year for best entertainment.