HOTELS large and small will have the chance to pat each other on the back for their significant contribution to the city’s economy.

The Brighton and Hove Hotel Awards will return later this year following its successful launch in 2014.

The occasion aims to recognise and unite hospitality business from the smallest boutique guesthouses to the biggest hotels.

Special recognition will be given to the unsung heroes of the industry – as well as best breakfast and warmest welcome.

Judges will be looking for distinctive, innovative, creative, unique and individual experiences this year.

Mark Jones, of awards organiser the Brighton and Hove Hoteliers Association, said: “We’re a sector that’s a major contributor to the city’s economy so it’s all about patting ourselves on the back.

“We wanted to do something that united the big hotels and the small independents.

“We often consider ourselves to be different – they have hundreds of rooms whereas we might have just eight. So it is about getting everyone together.”

There are now separate awards for property of the year, outstanding manager and warmest welcome – one award for branded hotels and another for smaller independents.

Last year more than 300 attended with any branded or independent accommodation provider able to enter.

The 2015 awards, sponsored by The Argus, will also raise money for the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity and The Argus Appeal, with a charity raffle offering some superb local prizes.

Award categories

  • Best Breakfast
  • Cleanliness Award
  • Warmest Welcome
  • Unsung Hero/Heroine
  • Ambassador for Customer Experience
  • Best Initiative
  • Outstanding Management
  • Property of the Year
  • Charity and Community Award