A TRAVEL and tourism student has been named as the best in the country.

Kristen Acker, 18, from Nelson, was awarded the Institute of Travel and Tourism’s Student of the Year award at a ceremony in the House of Commons.

The Burnley College Sixth Form Centre A-level student, who is currently studying a BTEC Extended Diploma in Travel and Tourism, was nominated for the national award by Travel and Tourism Programme Leader Melanie Crossley.

Kristen said: “I was really pleased just to be nominated for the award but when I found out I had been invited to London because I had won it, I couldn’t believe it and was in shock.

“I had a really good time at the awards ceremony and met some really influential people from the travel industry, some of whom I have kept in touch with since.

“Winning this award will definitely be going on my CV and will hopefully help me to stand out from other people when I decide what direction I want my career to take.”

Ms Crossley said: “Kristen was chosen to win the award because she has been an outstanding student, completing the course early achieving the Association of Cruise Experts’ Status.

“Kristen is a very hard worker who has achieved consistently top grades and benefitted from the individual support and high quality teaching offered by the college.

“We are delighted that she has won this award and look forward to her progressing to university and a rewarding career in the travel and tourism industry after benefitting from the supportive environment at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre. We are very proud of her accomplishments.”

The teenager, who is planning to progress to university after completing her studies, hopes to work abroad before deciding which area of the travel and tourism industry to focus on.

She was presented with the award by Lord Snape of Wednesbury, Claire Steiner, education and training director and chair at the Institute of Travel and Tourism, and award sponsor Bella Rangel Callan.

In addition to her award, Mrs Callan also presented Kristen with a pearl necklace.