CONVERTED buses and a festival which attracts thousands of people each year are in the running for Scotland’s premier tourism and events industry awards.

The Scottish Thistle Awards have helped shine a spotlight on businesses, people and partnership working for more than 20 years.

They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors.

Among those shortlisted at the Central and East Thistle Awards is The Bus Stop, between Gifford and East Saltoun, which will compete in the Best Self-Catering or Unique Stay category.

Susie McCabe (image: Colin Mearns, Newsquest), Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham, Frances Tophill (image: Kirsty Thompson) and Adam Hills are heading to Fringe by the Sea

Susie McCabe (image: Colin Mearns, Newsquest), Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham, Frances Tophill (image: Kirsty Thompson) and Adam Hills are heading to Fringe by the Sea

Meanwhile, Fringe by the Sea, is up again for Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival.

The North Berwick-based event claimed the national prize in the category at the Scottish Thistle Awards 2023 final in December.

Those shortlisted will go on to the Central and East Thistle Awards which takes place at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh in September.

Winners at the regional finals will then battle it out at the national Scottish Thistle Awards final in November.

The Bus Stop features three luxury buses, including sun loungers and luxury toiletries, and six eco buses.

Meanwhile, this year’s Fringe by the Sea, which takes place from August 2-11, features acts ranging from Ash and Idlewild to journalist Clive Myrie and comedian Adam Hills.

READ MORE: The Bus Stop named among the best by Scotland's Greatest Escape

Neil Christison, VisitScotland regional director, said: “It’s fantastic to know that The Bus Stop and Fringe by the Sea will be flying the flag for East Lothian at the Central & East Thistle Awards regional final. Both are strong entries and demonstrate the variety of the region’s tourism offering from unique experiences to unmissable events.

“I wish them both the very best of luck for the next stage of the competition.”

There are a total of 15 regional categories in this year’s programme, celebrating the very best of Scotland’s people, accommodation sector, food and drink, outdoor experiences and visitor attractions.

Additionally, there are three national-only categories that celebrate Scotland’s outstanding sporting events, business events and luxury experiences.