STAFF at Oswaldtwistle Mills have been celebrating after the venue was shortlisted as a finalist for the best shopping venue in the sixth annual Group Travel awards.

The eventual winner was Bluwater in Kent but other losing finalists included Meadowhall in Sheffield and Manchester's Trafford Centre.

Marketing executive Helen Garner said: "For Oswaldtwistle Mills to be nominated by readers of Group Travel Organiser magazine means that diligence has not gone unnoticed and to be among the list of finalists in any of these categories is certainly an achievement to be proud of."

She added: "The success of Oswaldtwistle Mills has been driven by its dedication to develop an interesting mix of retail, attractions, craft-related areas and service offerings.

"They have a holistic approach to service which includes looking after all members of a diverse group visitor market including group organisers, coach operators and coach drivers who receive complimentary vouchers on arrival."

Next month the complex is scheduled to host the Coach Tourism Council's coaching day out, which will see more than 600 group organisers descending on East Lancashire from around the UK for a familiarisation day.