A HOLIDAY venue in Winkleigh that uses renewable energy has been named as a finalist in the VisitEngland national tourism awards.

Wheatland Farm recently won gold for sustainable tourism at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards. It has now made the national shortlist in VisitEngland's sustainable tourism category.

The South West is home to a quarter of the 75 finalists named nationally, making it the most successful region in the country. Four of the finalists come from Devon.

Chairman of the South West judging panel Alistair Handyside said: 'We are absolutely delighted that the South West has come out as the top region at the VisitEngland National Awards, to be held in Newcastle upon Tyne on May 11.

'Our 19 finalists make up 25 per cent of the total, once again showing that the South West continues to lead the field in offering guests the best variety of quality tourism experience in England.'