Over 100 local tourism professionals, sponsors, judges, and applicants gathered on Thursday, 11th September for a stylish afternoon celebration aboard a boat from Poole Quay, hosted by Coastal Cruises Poole — marking a key milestone in the journey toward the 2025 Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) DMB Tourism Awards ceremony.

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Guests enjoyed a leisurely harbour cruise with free-flowing prosecco, high-energy sets from  HSWRK RESIDENT DJS DJ Jethro Watson and  DJ James Herkes, and a live percussion performance from MyleS Havana Percussion, all set against the scenic backdrop of Poole Harbour, basking in the post-rain sunshine.

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The party continued shoreside at La Mia's Restaurant, where guests were welcomed with a Conker Gin reception and a mouth-watering buffet featuring paella, meats, cheeses, and fresh fruits.

The evening’s highlight was the much-anticipated announcement of the 2025 DMB Tourism Awards Finalists, creating excitement for the official awards ceremony this November.

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“One of the Most Competitive Years Yet,” says Chair of DMB,  Andy Lennox​.

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Andy Lennox, Chair of the Destination Management Board, praised this year’s outstanding pool of applicants:

“It’s been fantastic to see the awards grow year on year. 2025 has been our most competitive to date — the quality of entries was exceptionally high, and our professional judging panel had some very tough decisions to make. We’re proud to showcase such an impressive range of tourism and hospitality talent.”

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He also expressed gratitude to morebus, the event’s Main Sponsor, and gave special recognition to Tim Seward, who continues to deliver the awards alongside his full-time role.

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Returning for a fourth consecutive year as host, Andy Brennan said:

“It’s always great to be back. The passion in this community is incredible — familiar faces return, and exciting new businesses join each year. These awards truly help put Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole on the national map.”

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Tim Seward, Lead Deliverer of the awards, added:

“This was a perfect day to reconnect and celebrate everything that makes our region’s tourism industry thrive. The weather came through just in time, and the atmosphere was brilliant — a true showcase of community spirit.”