A volunteer guide at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens has secured a place in the top three of VisitEngland’s national Tourism Superstar Award.
Eighty-seven-year-old Jimmy Nicol was one of ten finalists in the prestigious competition, which celebrates individuals working in tourism who deliver outstanding experiences for visitors, while highlighting the diversity and quality of England’s tourism industry.
Whilst Jimmy was awarded third place, Mick Hurst from Worcestershire’s Battle of Evesham historical events and re-enactments came out on top and Hull and East Yorkshire Volunteers took second place.
Jimmy secured his place in the national shortlist after winning Durham Tourism Superstar in 2025, an annual event organised by Visit County Durham, Durham County Council’s tourism service.
He was nominated for the Durham award by a colleague at Raby Castle who highlighted his passion and energy as well as the role he takes on as an ambassador, not only for Raby but the whole of the North East.
Tim Dodgson, public engagement and learning officer at Raby Estates said:
“Jimmy is one of the most caring people I’ve ever had the pleasure of working alongside and it’s a fantastic achievement for him to come third in such an important national competition.
“His endearing character and enthusiasm for Raby and the region shines through in everything he does and we’re lucky to have him as part of the team.”
Jimmy joined Raby in 2018 as a volunteer, sharing the castle’s fascinating history and has also been involved with meeting and greeting visitors at several Raby events.
Jimmy said:
“Being part of the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition has been a truly incredibly experience and I am immensely grateful to everyone who has taken the time to vote for me.
“Representing Raby and the region was a huge honour and finishing in the top three is something that I will be forever proud of.”
Michelle Gorman, managing director, Visit County Durham said:
“Jimmy is a fantastic example of the incredible people who make County Durham such a special place to visit. His warmth, knowledge, and genuine passion for Raby Castle, as well as the wider county, leave a lasting impression on everyone he meets. Coming third in VisitEngland’s national Tourism Superstar competition is a wonderful recognition of his dedication and expertise. We were incredibly proud to see him representing County Durham on the national stage and celebrating the very best of what our county has to offer.”
