The manager of Appleby Tourist Information Centre has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to the local area.
Nicola Elliot has been presented with a prestigious Inspiring Eden award.
A limited number of awards have been produced by Eden District Council to celebrate those individuals and organisations making a significant difference in the district.
Chair of Eden District Council, Councillor Douglas Banks, said, “I was delighted to present the Inspiring Eden Award to Nicola as small token of our appreciation of her diligence and hard work.”
Nicola started working in the tourism industry almost 20 years ago, after starting a family and moving back to Cumbria.
Alongside championing Appleby as a place to visit, the local Tourist Information Centre – of which Nicola manages – serves as a valuable community asset; acting as a front desk for both council and non-vouncil issues, supporting and promoting local arts and culture and using its exhibition room to promote the work of local artists’ work, as well as supporting local charities.
Nicola also works as part of the Platinum Playground group – a team of volunteers who run events and fundraising to rejuvenate the town playground. The group has raised over £25,000 to date, towards its target of £90,000.
In addition to her fundraising and management of the TIC, Nicola has also facilitated arts and culture projects for the town, including the Window Wanderland festival during the coronavirus pandemic and the Tree Art Festival around the riverside walkway.
Her face is also well-known in local schools, working with them regularly, most recently as part of the town’s jubilee celebrations: running a design a jubilee mug competition for children, a corgi hunt, flower festival and family events.
Nicola said: “Thank you so much to Eden District Council for this wonderful award, it’s nice to be appreciated and acknowledged in this way.
“I feel lucky to live and work in Appleby-in-Westmorland, it’s such a pretty, historic and friendly place. I love my role promoting the town and the beautiful Eden Valley and supporting our local community.”
Cllr Banks added: “Nicola has been a tireless advocate for the town of Appleby, its people and community groups, for many years.
“She’s a familiar and friendly face in the Tourist Information Centre, which has become such an important hub for the local community, thanks to her efforts. The breadth of her activities and the support she gives to so many in Appleby is testament to her abilities and her commitment to the area.
“Put simply, it’s people like Nicola, who bring communities together. She’s a true inspiration and thoroughly deserving of this recognition.”
For more information on the awards and Inspiring Eden, the Council’s plan to achieve rural excellence, visit www.investineden.co.uk/inspiring-eden.
