Industry News

A member of staff renowned for his exceptional customer service, genuine warmth and dedication to visitors has been crowned Durham Tourism Superstar 2026.

Kyle Gregory, Catering Supervisor at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens, secured the most public votes in the annual competition organised by Visit County Durham, Durham County Council's destination management organisation and tourism service.

The award celebrates the people who go above and beyond to create memorable visitor experiences and champion County Durham as a fantastic place to visit.

Kyle plays a central role in shaping the visitor experience at Ushaw, overseeing day-to-day catering operations while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, food service and presentation. Working closely with colleagues and volunteers, he helps deliver everything from welcoming café visitors to supporting major events across the historic estate, ensuring everyone receives a warm welcome and enjoys a true Taste of Durham.

Alongside his professional expertise, it is Kyle's natural ability to connect with people that truly sets him apart. Known for his warmth, humour and kindness, he creates a welcoming atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression, with many regular visitors asking for him by name.

Kyle is also a highly valued colleague who mentors and supports new team members, helping them build confidence and feel part of the team. His positivity, professionalism and commitment make him an outstanding ambassador for both Ushaw and County Durham's visitor economy.

For more than a decade, Durham Tourism Superstar has recognised individuals across the county's visitor economy who make an exceptional contribution to tourism. As well as receiving the county title, the winner goes on to represent County Durham in the prestigious VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition, where finalists from destinations across England compete in a public vote to be crowned the national winner.

County Durham has an outstanding record in the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition, with eight local winners reaching the national Top 10 and three going on to win the national title. Most recently, 2025 winner Jimmy Nicol of Raby Estates secured an impressive third place nationally. Kyle Gregory said: "I honestly didn't think I had a chance of winning, so to be named Durham Tourism Superstar 2026 is an incredible feeling. I'm absolutely thrilled and still can't quite believe it. I love working at Ushaw and being part of such a fantastic team. We all work hard to make sure every visitor has a great experience, so it's really special to receive this recognition. It's a brilliant award that celebrates the people behind our visitor economy, and I'm proud to be representing County Durham in the national competition."

Michelle Gorman, Managing Director of Visit County Durham, said: "It is fantastic to celebrate Kyle as Durham Tourism Superstar 2026. This award shines a spotlight on the people who are at the heart of our visitor economy, and Kyle is a brilliant example of the warmth, professionalism and genuine hospitality that make County Durham such a special place to visit. His ability to create memorable experiences for visitors while supporting colleagues and volunteers alike makes him a truly deserving winner. We are delighted to see him represent County Durham in the national VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition and wish him every success."

Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council's Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Tourism, Regeneration and High Streets, said: "Durham Tourism Superstar plays an important role in showcasing the outstanding people who bring County Durham's visitor economy to life. Kyle is a brilliant example of the talent, dedication and warm hospitality visitors experience across the county every day. His success reflects the strength and quality of our tourism sector, and we are proud to see him representing County Durham on the national stage through the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition."

The announcement comes as County Durham's visitor economy continues to go from strength to strength. The latest independent STEAM research shows the sector now supports 14,000 jobs, while visitor expenditure reached a record £1.48 billion in 2025, an increase of 8 per cent on the previous year and the third consecutive year of record-breaking growth.

The research also shows County Durham welcomed 21.98 million visitors in 2025, up 2 per cent on 2024, making it one of the most visited destinations in North East England.