THE delights of Yorkshire are once again proving themselves hard to beat in the tourism world.

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence see the nation’s best of the best go up against each other.

And this year North Yorkshire has six finalists – two of them in the same category.

The Dovecote Barns in York and High Barn Cottages near Bridlington are competing against each other to be crowned the best self-catering providers in the country.

The World of James Herriot in Thirsk is in the running for the small visitor attraction while Yorebridge House in Bainbridge is up for the Taste of England award.

The National Railway Museum in York is a finalist thanks to its hugely successful Mallard 75 celebration and the Talbot Hotel in Malton is up for the small hotel of the year award.

The chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, Gary Verity said: "?To have so many Yorkshire businesses in the final just shows how strong tourism is in our county.

“Given their quality, they have every chance of beating off national competition to scoop the top awards themselves. We know whatever happens, they'll do Yorkshire proud."

The ceremony will be held on May 11 at the Sage Gateshead and all finalists are guaranteed to receive either a Gold, Silver, Bronze or Highly Commended Award.