Eight Glasgow businesses, events and individuals have been shortlisted for a top tourism award.

The 2015 World Gymnastics Championships, the British Swimming IPC Swimming World Championships and Glasgow Film Festival are among those in the running for a Scottish Thistle Awards.

The awards, which take place in November, have been running for 24 years and have gained the reputation of being tourism’s equivalent of the Oscars.

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A record-breaking number of entries were submitted this year, totally 715 across the 15 regional categories.

Entrants were shortlisted by a panel of industry experts and regional winners will go on to the glittering Scottish Thistle Awards National final held in Edinburgh in March 2017.

Glasgow restaurants The Gannet, Gamba and Stravagin, as well as Munro’s which is in the running for friendliest pub will be hoping to bag a prize on the night.

Destination Manager Karen Donnelly from Love Loch Lomond has also been shortlisted for an award in the Regional Ambassador category, which recognises individuals who have dedicated their time and energy to making a difference to tourism in their local area.

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Winners will be announced at the West Regional Final held at Grand Central Hotel on November 24, hosted by TV presenter and former Miss Scotland, Jennifer Reoch.

The awards recognise hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, visitor attractions and individuals who go the extra mile to provide customers with exceptional service.

The 15 regional categories, aligned with the Scottish Tourism Strategy 2020, include ‘Friendliest pub/bar’ and ‘Innovation in Tourism’, as well as new awards such as ‘Regional Rising Star’ – awarding young people aged 30 and under who have shown real passion for tourism – and ‘Tourism & Hospitality Hero’ – celebrating those front line staff, from tour guides to front of house, who provide exceptional service and a personal touch.

Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards Industry Panel and VisitScotland Board member, Rebecca Brooks. said:

“It is fantastic to see a high calibre of shortlisted entrants for this year’s awards from an amazing record-breaking number of entries.

"The Scottish tourism industry and hospitality sector prides itself on delivering a rewarding experience for visitors and we are delighted to recognise those deserving nominees for their dedication to quality.

“Tourism is more than a holiday experience; it creates jobs and sustains communities in every corner of Scotland all year round and is at the heart of our country’s economy.

“The Scottish Thistle Awards are a chance to celebrate the shining stars of innovation and excellence in our tourism and hospitality sector and recognise those who strive to offer visitors a truly memorable experience of Scotland."