A BLACKPOOL bed and breakfast hotel has earned its stars and stripes from overjoyed American visitors.

A trans-Atlantic tribute for the Kimberley Guest House on Gynn Avenue was sent to Lancashire Tourism Partnership by two visitors who extended their stay from four days to two weeks.

The seven-room venue was "beyond expectations and surpasses any merit that can be awarded for hospitality," said Susan Carter who visited with husband Nhan Nguyen and their baby daughter.

They were thrilled by the hospitality shown by hosts Gwyn and Maud Thomas.

"This is the best place I have ever stayed at during all my travels. Not only is the Kimberley beautifully decorated and colour coordinated, it is immaculately clean, neat and fresh."

After praising the food and comfort Ms Carter said it was Mr and Mrs Thomas who set the Kimberley apart.

"They treated us like family from the moment we stepped through the front door.

"Nothing was too much for them. They even did laundry for us and allowed us to make personal, important phone calls on their private line. My husband and I only intended to stay four nights and then move on with our journey.

"However, Gwyn and Maud were so hospitable and The Kimberley so comfortable that we ended up staying the full two weeks of our vacation at their B&B.

"Please spread the word to any travellers looking for an extraordinary place to stay, at ordinary rates."

Mr Thomas said that the service they gave was nothing exceptional.

"The welcome you give is very important," he said.

"If you want people to come back you have to sell yourself."

Mr Thomas came from South Wales to start the business 10 years ago after retiring through ill health.,

"It has been brilliant," he said. "The work isn't too hard with careful planning and if you accept all the help and advice you can."