Installing WiFi and replacing 1,000 chairs has helped Torquay's Riviera International Centre win a prestigious silver business award.

The Business Tourism of the Year Award was presented at the glittering South West Tourism Excellence Awards, held at the Palace Hotel, Torquay, in association with First Great Western and South West Water.

Known as the South West Tourism Oscars, the awards celebrate the best in the whole of the south west and aim to promote and reward those at the very top in the tourism industry.

The Riviera International Centre had to demonstrate exemplary facilities and exceptionally high qualities of customer care, reflecting the demands of today's customers. In addition, a commitment to sustainability, recycling and the environment had to be reflected. Winners were also commended for their use of regional produce and investment in the local community.

Developments at the Centre included installing WiFi in all its conference rooms and replacing around 1,000 chairs in its main auditorium.

Barry Cole, managing director of the Centre, explained: "We had to provide evidence of physical improvements made over the last two years, improving the product we offer to our customers.

"We also had to demonstrate evidence of investment in staff training and development. I'm extremely proud of all the staff at the Centre. They've all shown a huge commitment to excellence and it's paid off for us with our efforts being recognised. Thank-you to everyone who helped turn our aspirations for continuous improvement into such a prestigious Award. It shows that we live by our motto; excellence is our standard"

Guest speaker and presenter at the event was Frank Barrett, Travel Editor of The Mail on Sunday, who shared his anecdotes and perspective on the South West's tourism industry.

Photo: From left to right: head chef Horace Ham, conference and events co-ordinator Laura Cleary, managing director Barry Cole, receptionist Katie Leah, conference and events manager Simon Jolly.