Ushaw catering supervisor crowned Durham Tourism Superstar 2026

A member of staff renowned for his exceptional customer service, genuine warmth and dedication to visitors has been crowned Durham Tourism Superstar 2026.

Kyle Gregory, Catering Supervisor at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens, secured
the most public votes in the annual competition organised by Visit County Durham, Durham
County Council's destination management organisation and tourism service.

The award celebrates the people who go above and beyond to create memorable visitor
experiences and champion County Durham as a fantastic place to visit.

Kyle plays a central role in shaping the visitor experience at Ushaw, overseeing day-to-day
catering operations while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, food service and
presentation. Working closely with colleagues and volunteers, he helps deliver everything
from welcoming café visitors to supporting major events across the historic estate, ensuring
everyone receives a warm welcome and enjoys a true Taste of Durham.

Alongside his professional expertise, it is Kyle's natural ability to connect with people that
truly sets him apart. Known for his warmth, humour and kindness, he creates a welcoming
atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression, with many regular visitors asking for him by
name.

Kyle is also a highly valued colleague who mentors and supports new team members,
helping them build confidence and feel part of the team. His positivity, professionalism and
commitment make him an outstanding ambassador for both Ushaw and County Durham's
visitor economy.

For more than a decade, Durham Tourism Superstar has recognised individuals across the
county's visitor economy who make an exceptional contribution to tourism. As well as
receiving the county title, the winner goes on to represent County Durham in the prestigious
VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition, where finalists from destinations across
England compete in a public vote to be crowned the national winner.

County Durham has an outstanding record in the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar
competition, with eight local winners reaching the national Top 10 and three going on to win
the national title. Most recently, 2025 winner Jimmy Nicol of Raby Estates secured an
impressive third place nationally.

Kyle Gregory said: "I honestly didn't think I had a chance of winning, so to be named
Durham Tourism Superstar 2026 is an incredible feeling. I'm absolutely thrilled and still can't
quite believe it. I love working at Ushaw and being part of such a fantastic team. We all work
hard to make sure every visitor has a great experience, so it's really special to receive this
recognition. It's a brilliant award that celebrates the people behind our visitor economy, and
I'm proud to be representing County Durham in the national competition."

Michelle Gorman, Managing Director of Visit County Durham, said: "It is fantastic to
celebrate Kyle as Durham Tourism Superstar 2026. This award shines a spotlight on the
people who are at the heart of our visitor economy, and Kyle is a brilliant example of the
warmth, professionalism and genuine hospitality that make County Durham such a special
place to visit. His ability to create memorable experiences for visitors while supporting
colleagues and volunteers alike makes him a truly deserving winner. We are delighted to see
him represent County Durham in the national VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition
and wish him every success."

Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council's Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Tourism,
Regeneration and High Streets, said: "Durham Tourism Superstar plays an important role in
showcasing the outstanding people who bring County Durham's visitor economy to life. Kyle
is a brilliant example of the talent, dedication and warm hospitality visitors experience across
the county every day. His success reflects the strength and quality of our tourism sector, and
we are proud to see him representing County Durham on the national stage through the
VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition."

The announcement comes as County Durham's visitor economy continues to go from
strength to strength. The latest independent STEAM research shows the sector now
supports 14,000 jobs, while visitor expenditure reached a record £1.48 billion in 2025, an
increase of 8 per cent on the previous year and the third consecutive year of record-breaking
growth.

The research also shows County Durham welcomed 21.98 million visitors in 2025, up 2 per
cent on 2024, making it one of the most visited destinations in North East England.