TOURISM is the fastest growing and biggest industry in the Yorkshire region, worth £4.2 billion and accounting for one in five new jobs.

Now, local operators in the industry are being offered a chance to get their contribution recognised.

The White Rose Awards 2003, organised by the Yorkshire Tourist Board (YTB), challenges local tourism businesses to prove themselves "the best of the best" in Yorkshire, and gain the chance to go on to the nationwide awards, Excellence in England 2004.

David Andrews, YTB's chief executive, stressed the importance of continual improvement to compete in the tourist industry's highly competitive global market.

Mr Andrews reminded potential entrants of the "the kudos the winner's marque brings" and the media attention generated for all participants.

The deadline for entry is April 30, and entry forms along with details can be downloaded from www.yorkshiretouristboard.net.

Updated: 08:43 Friday, April 11, 2003