DURHAM is in the running to be named the UK’s best holiday county.

The county has been shortlisted for Best UK Holiday County or Region in this year’s British Travel Awards, along with Northumberland, Cornwall, Devon, Lancashire and Pembrokeshire.

The winner will be chosen by a public vote, which is open now and until Tuesday, September 30. To vote, visit britishtravelawards.com/vote_form.php

The winners will be announced at the 2014 British Travel Awards to be held in London on Wednesday, November 26.

Melanie Sensicle, chief executive of Visit County Durham, said: “We are thrilled that Durham has been recognised in the British Travel Awards 2014.

“There are many reasons why the county is a strong contender.

“There is no denying the competition is tough but success in a public vote like this inspires confidence in a destination which will in turn encourage visitors to try something new.”