Shropshire border marina one of best in UK

Overwater Marina, based near Market Drayton, has received the Inland Marina of the Year award from The Yacht Harbour Association.

The marina, which opened in 2010, is situated on the Shropshire Union Canal close to Audlem and has once again been recognised for its beautiful countryside location, spacious design and friendly atmosphere for the third year running.

The marina has won the inaugural 'marina of distinction' award, which distinguishes a marina with over three consecutive years of continual customer service excellence, as voted for by its customers in the marina of the year competition. To qualify, marinas must rank a category finalist over three consecutive competitions. On the third year, they would automatically receive the title of marina of distinction.

Now in its fourth year, the THYA awards recognise the best of over 160 Gold Anchor accredited marinas from round the world.

The winning marinas are voted for by their berth-holders in the UK Coastal, UK Inland, International and Superyacht categories.

Janet and Angus Maughan, owners of Overwater Marina, said: "We, and the whole team at Overwater Marina are absolutely delighted to receive this award. It's made all the more special by virtue of the fact it is voted for by our customers."

A statement on the marina's Facebook page added: "Immensely proud to announce that we did it again. Overwater has been voted one of the country's top marinas and in doing so, as this is our third consecutive year, we have the received the prestigious honour of the marina of distinction award at the London Boat Show. A massive thanks to everyone who voted for us."

Commenting on Facebook, Maxine Holt said: "Brilliant! Great place and wonderful staff. Here's to the next three years from all on Lady Boann and family guests."

Linda King said: "Well done – you deserve it. My favourite marina." FD Christophe added: "Well deserved and congratulations. We love mooring there."`

To commemorate their achievement, winners and runners-up of the awards, as well as receivers of marina of distinction, were presented with laser-etched glass trophies and framed certificates by David Perfect, managing director of sponsors GJW, and Sarah Hanna, chairman of THYA.

Jon White, general manager of THYA, said: "A huge congratulations to all the winners, runners-up and all marinas who were voted for in the 2017 marina of the year competition.

"The array of marinas who stood out in this year's competition showed how strong the today's marina industry is at achieving, and in some cases exceeding, the modern consumer's standard of quality service and excellent facilities.

"The new marina of distinction accolade goes one further, honouring outstanding long-term customer service. We are delighted this year to be awarding five marinas from across the world for the first time with the title of marina of distinction." Overwater Marina has won a number of other prestigious awards since its opening, including becoming the first canal marina to be awarded five Gold Anchors by the British Marine Federation.

Last year bosses saw plans to create new holiday lodges on the site given the go-ahead.

The lodges have been chosen to blend in with their surroundings and will be available to buy and also to rent out on a short break or weekly basis.