YORK'S tourism industry was given a massive boost today after the city was named Britain's best holiday destination outside London.

We pipped other historic cities including Bath, Oxford and Chester - and far outranked local rival Leeds - in Thomas Cook's 2001 Travel Awards.

And chipping in to agree with the honour was ex-US President Bill Clinton, who paid tribute to the city despite missing out on a chance to visit.

Arriving in Harrogate for the Yorkshire International Business Convention yesterday, Mr Clinton told the Evening Press: "I love York very much.

"I remember how beautiful it was in the springtime."

In the Thomas Cook survey, York was one of only two cities to be praised by tourists for its clean streets.

Councillor Derek Smallwood, City of York Council's executive member for the environment, said: "I'm absolutely over the moon because this shows that the exacting standards we set ourselves in keeping the city centre clean have earned their reward.

"Nothing could be better for us than such an award. We get so much stick because four million visitors bring a lot of rubbish over the year.

"It's good to get recognition for the time and effort put in."

The top reason given for visiting York was the city's rich heritage.

Next came shopping, then soaking up the relaxing atmosphere, followed by leisure activities such as river cruises and days out at the races

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of York Tourism Bureau, said she was thrilled by the news.

"This award has come just after the National Railway Museum has been voted European Museum of the year. With so many fantastic attractions in the city it really is no wonder that our visitors simply love York.

"There are a great many beautiful cities in Britain, but no other city can offer such a stunning variety of things to see and do in such beautiful surroundings."

Denise Howard, owner of YorkBoat and a director of the York Tourism Bureau, said: "This award is yet another great accolade for York."

YorkBoat is cashing in on the city's tourism boom and has just had its best May ever.

Revenue for last month was 65 per cent up on the same period last year.

Mr Clinton apologised for the fact that a delayed flight meant he could not visit York Minster yesterday.

"I'm sorry, but I'll just have to take a raincheck on York," he said.

Updated: 10:16 Saturday, June 09, 2001