The Yorkshire Tourist Board (YTB) has revealed the 71 finalists for its 17th annual White Rose Awards, which celebrate the best in the region’s tourism industry.

Operators – both members and non-members of the YTB – had until 26 May to enter their business for the 13 award categories, which are designed to recognise excellence in tourism.

Finalists for the Visitor Attraction of the Year award include The Deep in Hull, which is set to develop a sister attraction in the city featuring a story centre based on the world’s river systems; the National Coal Mining Museum for England in Overton, Wakefield, which opened its Hope Pit attraction in May – a colliery complex housing restored buildings dating back to the 19th century; and the National Railway Museum in York, which recently installed a full-size train simulator.

Finalists for the Best Tourist Experience Award comprise Eureka! The Museum for Children in Halifax; the Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham; and The Ghost Trail, York Maze and Yorkshire Air Museum in York.

David Andrews, chief executive of YTB, said: “Year on year the popularity of these awards increases. Not only with the number of businesses entering, but with sponsors looking to ally themselves with a brand which personifies excellence. Without their support the White Rose Awards would not enjoy their current prestige.

“The finalists represent the best of Yorkshire’s tourism. They have won their places in the shortlist thanks not only to the quality of their product, but the style in which the operation is run, its success and professionalism.”

The category winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on 19 September at the Magna Science Adventure Centre – winner of last year’s White Rose Award for Business Tourism and also of the national category in the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence earlier this year.

The winners in 10 of the award categories will automatically qualify for entry to the national Enjoy England Excellence Awards to be held in spring 2007. Details: www.ytb.org.uk