The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth has been named as the prestigious winner of Devon’s Top Attractions (DTA) very first annual ‘Loo of the Year Award’ in 2019.
Devon’s Top Attractions comprises over 30 of the very best visitor attractions and days out in Devon and, to quality as a member, attractions must go through a rigorous annual inspection process and also pass the strict quality criteria continuously in order to be awarded the coveted DTA quality-assured stamp of approval.
In order to further improve quality and standards at DTA attractions, members agreed to have an extra focal point on visitor toilets this year and to bring in the ‘Loo of the Year Awards’.
The simple objective was to raise awareness among members and to encourage the highest possible standards since toilets are an important area for visitors that can be overlooked at times, yet it’s a place that nearly all visitors will pay a visit of course!
The ‘Loo of the Year’ inspections were done at the same time as DTA’s normal annual inspections and mystery shopper visits, and covered numerous elements, including quality, facilities, cleanliness, décor, hygiene, maintenance, signage and air quality.
The Donkey Sanctuary came out top with their outstanding facilities, cleanliness and sleek design. John Crouch, the Visitor Engagement Manager at the Donkey Sanctuary said:
“A comfort break should be just that, so we make sure our toilets are clean, warm and accessible for all. All praise to our fabulous in-house cleaners. This award will be a great way to attract more coach companies and visitors to us and so we are really pleased to be named as the 2019 winner.”
The other two finalists were Seaton Tramway and Quince Honey Farm who both also have excellent toilet amenities and who both exceeded all of the tough criteria.
Incoming Chairman for the Devon Association of Tourist Attractions Dick Wood said:
“We are delighted to announce our very first ‘Loo of the Year Awards’ winner as The Donkey Sanctuary which easily surpassed all of our quality criteria measures and standards, and we hope we have increased awareness of how important the high standard of public conveniences is for Devon tourism businesses.”
