A member of the Windermere Lake Cruises team, Ahmed Abdelaziz, is one of ten finalists in VisitEngland’s highly prized Tourism Superstar Award, which celebrates those who go the extra mile to give tourists and amazing experience.
Originally from Egypt, the father-of-two left for England when terror attacks affected the Egyptian tourism industry. Ahmed has now been working for Windermere Lake Cruises for five years, overseeing the self-drive boats in Ambleside.
Nigel Wilkinson, Managing Director of Windermere Lake Cruises, who together with Cumbria Tourism nominated Ahmed for the award said, “Throughout his time with us Ahmed has never failed to ensure customers and colleagues are always smiling. He exudes enthusiasm which is contagious!
“He worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure he was protecting Windermere Lake Cruises’ passengers and staff and adhering to all the COVID-19 secure operating procedures the company put in place. We know from their comments our customers have really appreciated his efforts.”
Speaking about his nomination, Ahmed said, “It was a very proud moment to be nominated for the Tourism Superstar award and it would be wonderful to win it as a recognition of all the heard work the team at Windermere Lake Cruises has put in over the last two years.
“It has been really nice to hear visitors and residents say they have voted for me. I love living and working here in the Lake District and I think it shows! I just try to put a smile on people’s faces and it’s great to know they appreciate it!”
Now in its 10th year, Tourism Superstar is run in partnership with The Mirror newspaper to recognise those who are passionate about their work in tourism. The winner is decided by a public vote which closes at midnight on 22 March.
VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said, “Tourism Superstar recognises those people who go above and beyond to make visitor experiences in England so special. Whether creating a memorable stay in a seaside hotel, adding a touch of showbiz to a tour or an attraction or making sure everyone’s needs are catered for, these individuals truly go the extra mile in their role as tourism ambassadors.”
The winner will be announced in the Mirror Newspaper at the end of English Tourism Week on 26 March.
