by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Two award-winning Kent travel businesses have been going places with group organisers.

P&O Ferries, the cross-Channel operator based in Dover, was named Best Ferry Operator in the annual Group Leisure Awards presented last night (23) in Birmingham.

Saga Holidays, based in Folkestone, won the accolade of Best Group Tour Operator – Short Haul.

The awards, voted for by readers of group Leisure magazine and groupleisure.com, were presented by Holby City star Tina Hobley in front of 350 UK and international trade specialists.

Group travel organisers covering sports and social clubs, pensioner organisations, National Trust, PROBUS, WI, and U3A voted in 21 categories.

Other winners included Bournemouth (Best UK Resort), Jersey Boys (Best Theatre Production), Birmingham (Best UK City), New York City (Best International Destination), Virgin Trains (Best Rail Operator) and Warwick Castle (Best UK Attraction).

Rob Yandell, managing editor and publisher of Group Leisure magazine, which founded the awards in 1997, said: “It’s been another fantastic night and I’d like to thank all of our readers for casting their vote.

“Whether it’s a day trip, weekend away or overseas adventure, travelling in groups can be fun, safe and great value. It’s great to see so many people recognised and to send out such a positive message.”