Three Sidmouth businesses have been announced as finalists in this year's Devon Tourism Awards.

The finalists have been announced for this year's Devon Tourism Awards which will be presented at The Riviera International Conference Centre in Torquay on November 28.

The Donkey Sanctuary was today announced as a finalist in the Large Visitor Attraction Of The Year category.

The sanctuary will face stiff competition from RHS Rosemoor in Great Torrington, Pennywell Farm in Buckfastleigh, The Big Sheep in Bideford and the The Milky Way Adventure Park, between Bideford and Hartland.

The Donkey Sanctuary tweeted in response to the news this morning: "To say we're happy to hear we've been shortlisted for Large Attraction of Year in the @devontouraward, is an understatement!

"Congrats to all #DevonTA finalists - roll on 28 November when we find out the bronze, silver and gold award winners. #Devon #LoveDevon."

Oakdown Holiday Park in Sidmouth is a finalist in the Touring Camping and Caravanning Park Of The Year category.

Oakdown is up against Harford Bridge Holiday Park in Tavistock and River Dart Country Park in Ashburton.

Alpine Cottages, on the outskirts of Sidmouth, has been announced as a finalist in the Self Catering Accommodation Of The Year category.

The holiday cottage provider faces competition from Cofton Holidays in Dawlish, North Hayne Farm Cottages in South Molton and Ravendere Retreats in Ilfracombe.

A record 240 entries were received from across Devon, with 88 selected as finalists who are now in suspense until the Awards Ceremony, when they will learn whether they have won Gold, Silver or Bronze awards. A further 20 receive Commended status.

The 10th year of the competition has seen many changes, with new entry forms, new processes and a closer-than-ever link with the regional South West and national VisitEngland Awards.

Judging has also changed with an increased focus on digital presence and evidence, with all entrants receiving feedback.

Awards organizer Robin Barker of Services for Tourism commented: "Change is one of the constants in business success and so it is with awards. Ten years ago we launched the Devon Tourism Awards with 80 entries and concluded with an awards event for 120. This year we have seen a record 240 entries and expect over 300 for the event.

"We have also achieved our own recognition, winning a Gold accreditation in the Awards Trustmark scheme, the first in UK tourism, and I'd like to publicly thank all those who have helped along the way."

Simon Nicholls, Managing Director of Headline Sponsors BECO Energy, congratulated the Finalists: "We're excited to see the details of this year's finalists, judged for their quality of service as well as their sustainable and ethical credentials, and look forward to meeting them all at Awards night."