PERTH CONCERT Hall secured its most prestigious award yet at the weekend when it was announced as the Scottish Thistle Awards 2007 Business Tourism winner.

In the two years since it threw open its doors to everyone from classical buffs to folk, comedy and rock lovers and even Tory party delegates, the venue has won widespread acclaim and numerous awards.

But recognition at the tourism Oscars was confirmation that the glass-fronted, copper-domed hall is leading the way in one of Scotland’s most vital industries.

With more than 45,000 delegates enjoying the hospitality of the venue’s conference and events team over the last 24 months, business is booming and the spin-offs are being felt throughout the Perthshire economy and beyond.

Horsecross Arts Ltd, the company that runs the concert hall, beat off stiff competition to win the award.

Perth and North Perth-shire MP Pete Wishart hailed the achievement last night, saying, “I am very, very pleased that Perth Concert Hall has won this fantastic award.

“I have been a long-time supporter and recognise the immense contribution it has made to the local economy and I’m sure the Perth Concert Hall will go from strength to strength.”

Horsecross Arts Ltd is also responsible for Perth Theatre and at the ceremony in Edinburgh’s International Conference Centre chief executive Jane Spiers spoke of her delight with the win.

She said, “The award is testament to the genuine team effort that makes Horsecross what it is.

“Our new concert hall has won numerous awards, but it’s not the bricks and mortar that have created our success over the last two years, but a real sense of buy-in from all involved.

“From front of house to back stage crew there’s a passion for what we do here, and I’m just delighted that this has been recognised through this nomination.”

Michaela Ruff, Horse-cross conference and events manager, added, “This nomination is the icing on the cake for us after a hugely successful first couple of years.

“We’ve exceeded all our targets and received wonderful feedback from delegates and organisers alike.”