Emily Hirons (above) manager of the Oxford Castle Unlocked visitor centre, which won the Four Pillars Tourism, Hospitality and Leisure Award, said the success had helped boost visitor numbers to the attraction.

She added: “It is fantastic to be recognised by our peers in Oxfordshire. It was a really good marketing opportunity and this year we have welcomed 70,000 visitors — 28 per cent up on last year. But we are very ambitious and will enter again next year.”