TWO North Yorkshire campsites are looking forward to increased bookings after being named as the country's finest and best in the North-East.

AA inspectors said since winning an AA regional award in 2013, Vale Of Pickering Caravan Park owners Chris and Dianne Stockdale had continued to invest each year, creating a "beautifully maintained and spacious family park" and the site deserved to be named as the nation's best.

Inspectors wrote: "This year the AA inspector was stunned by the quality and design of the new state-of-the-art facilities block which has six fully-equipped wet rooms and a very smart dishwashing room.

"With underfloor heating, quality marble walls and floor-to-ceiling photographs in each, they certainly have the wow factor."

Helen and Jon Hill, who have run Cote Ghyll at Osmotherley for 15 years, said winning the AA accolade for the region had followed a continuous drive to improve the site, which has included the introduction of underfloor heating in the shower block and developing the children's play area.

Mrs Hill said: "It has come as a lovely surprise and recognition for our team of 12, and only a month after the youth hostel we run next door was awarded four stars."

AA inspectors described the site, which features 70 camping and touring pitches and 18 static caravans with the Cod Beck running through it, as "the perfect base for active people", with well-appointed facilities.

They wrote: "Mature trees, shrubs and an abundance of seasonal floral displays create a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere, and the whole park is immaculately maintained."