GILBERT White and The Oates Collections in Selborne has been commended in the Best Small Visitor Attraction category of the Beautiful South Awards,.

This year saw a near-record 170 entries in 23 categories in the annual competition from all parts of the region.

They were shortlisted from their entry forms and mystery shopped by expert independent judges.

Mark Smith, chairman of Tourism South East, said: “Every year I’m blown away by the sheer quality of the businesses that enter the Beautiful South Awards.

“It’s a reminder that tourism businesses in the south-east are a match for any in the country and some are truly world class. This year the overall standard of entries was higher than ever, making it extremely tough for the judges.

“The margins in some categories were extremely fine and some excellent businesses – that I would encourage to enter again next year – narrowly missed the cut.

“I am really looking forward to celebrating with the best of the best at the awards night at the Grand Brighton in December.’’

The museum was redeveloped in 2017–18 and this vastly improved its visitor experience.