STAFF at Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life have been celebrating after winning the Bronze Award for Small Visitor Attraction at the South West Tourism Awards for the second year running.

Nearly 350 entries were considered for the awards, with all entrants undergoing a rigorous short-listing process and 213 going on to be visited by a team of 35 mystery shoppers.

Up to four award winners from each category in this year’s awards will all now go on to represent the region at the National Enjoy England Awards for Excellence in May.

Andrea Rowe, chairman of Trustees of the museum said: “This regional award is testimony to the professionalism of the museum director, Pippa Griffith.

“Without the support of Tiverton Town Council and the Mid Devon District Council, the trust could not afford a full time post.

“She leads our many volunteers who come from across the district and who contribute hugely to the success of the Museum.

“We have an exciting and varied programme of events and exhibitions for 2014 so do continue to support your famous local Museum.”

Pippa Griffith, director at Tiverton Museum, said: “This is a fantastic achievement to be recognised again as among the very best attractions in a huge region that has literally hundreds of small attractions.

“The award is a fantastic way to start our new year. We would particularly like to thank West Pitt Farm – who were highly commended in the self-catering establishment category – for sponsoring our award tickets which meant we were able to attend the awards ceremony.”

Vice-chairman Philip Sealy and Pippa Griffith collected the award at the ceremony at The Holiday Inn, Plymouth, which was hosted by ITV West Country news presenter Ian Axton, with a stimulating opening presentation by travel writer Sally Shalam.