Four Guilders, Anne Errington, Steve Ball, Brenda Dell and Tass Cotton together with their Volunteer co-ordinator Rob Pratten received the award on behalf of all the 250 Guilders

Hundreds of volunteers who helped make the Preston Guild happen last year were rewarded last night.

At a tourism award celebrating the best in Lancashire’s tourist destinations it was the contribution of the Guilders which won Preston recognition.

More than 250 people gave time out to do all sorts of jobs throughout the Guild.

The Outstanding Contribution to Tourism award was given to the group on Thursday evening at a special ceremony.

Councillor Tom Burns, cabinet member for culture and leisure, said: “This is a fantastic acknowledgement of the hard work and commitment that local people put into making Preston Guild 2012 so very special.

“I was very proud to accept the award, along with Rob Pratten (Guild Volunteer Co-ordinator) and four of the Guilders themselves. It was a great night and the award only added to the wonderful atmosphere, so thanks to Marketing Lancashire.”

The award itself will be on display at the Harris Museum until 11 December for anyone to view.

Elsewhere the only other success for Preston was the Brockholes Nature Reserve winning the best conference venue.

Were you a Guild volunteer? What do you think about the award? Let us know in the comments below