HOLIDAY cottages near Droxford have won Gold in the Dog Friendly Business of the Year category at the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2018 Ceremony.

Wallops Wood Cottages, located off Sheardley Lane, was presented with the award during a ceremony at the Bath Assembly Rooms, hosted by television presenter Kirstie Allsopp. Chief executive officer of VisitBritain and VisitEngland, Sally Balcombe, said: “The standard of the hundreds of applications we received this year was extremely high and that’s why Wallops Wood Cottages’ accolade is a testament to their excellent work.”

Wallops Wood Cottages owner Andrew Graham said: “Located in the beautiful Meon Valley in the South Downs National Park, our cottages are an excellent base from which to explore all that Hampshire has to offer.

“All our staff try their utmost to ensure our guests and their pets are looked after – this win is testament to their hard work.

“Part of the reason for entering these awards is the feedback we receive from the judges. There is always room for improvement, and the judges’ comments give us valuable suggestions and points to work on. We are absolutely delighted to receive this award.”