OXFORDSHIRE’S Blenheim Palace and the city’s Visitor Information Centre have been recognised at VisitEngland’s annual Awards for Excellence.

Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, received the silver award in the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year category.

The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire won first prize.

While the Oxford Visitor Information Centre also received the silver award in the Visitor Information Provider of the Year category, pipped by York Visitor Information Centre.

The prestigious awards, now in their 29th year, recognise, congratulate and celebrate businesses and individuals who raise the bar of England’s tourism offer.