A University of Chester student has won a national tourism award.

Ellie Morris was recognised for her "outstanding contribution" to efforts to achieve World Heritage Site status for Birkenhead Park.

The 20-year-old, studying Business Management and International Tourism Management, was announced as the winner of the Tourism Management Institute's (TMI) 2024 Undergraduate Student Award.

Ms Morris impressed the judges with her four-week work-based learning placement with the Birkenhead Park UNESCO World Heritage Project, during which she managed communication platforms and conducted visitor research.

The judging panel noted her success in increasing the park's social media engagement and delivering valuable visitor survey feedback.

Ms Morris said: "It is a huge honour to win such a prestigious award on behalf of Chester Business School.

"I am honestly thrilled and grateful to have contributed to Birkenhead Park UNESCO World Heritage Project with the support of World Heritage Project Officer at Birkenhead Park, Marie Le Devehat, and the rest of the Birkenhead Park team.

"The 2024 TMI Award has inspired me to explore the industry further and I hope this inspires others in seeing that hard work and experience can lead to outstanding team achievements."

Marie Le Devehat said: "It was a real pleasure to have Ellie with us for a few weeks and I was also very impressed by her ability to pick up things so quickly and to make great suggestions.

"It is so important for us to have new eyes looking at the project, especially younger people - the aim of the UNESCO WHS programme is to ensure our heritage is transmitted to future generations, and it is great to see them so enthusiastic about it."

Colin Potts, programme leader for international tourism management at the university, added: "As well as being academically talented, Ellie has loads of enthusiasm and is very hard-working.

"These are ideal qualities for working in tourism.

"In the business school,l we work hard to provide our students with real work challenges and industry connections.

"Ellie makes the most of every opportunity and I am sure that she will use this award as a springboard for a successful career."