From Our Kitchen to the National Stage: Maurizio Named VisitEngland Tourism Superstar Finalist
We have some wonderful news to share with you all. Maurizio has been selected as one of just ten national finalists for VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar 2026 competition – a recognition that has left us both humbled and incredibly proud.
Now in its 14th year, the Tourism Superstar competition celebrates individuals and teams across England’s visitor economy who go above and beyond to deliver outstanding experiences, whilst showcasing the diversity, quality and character of England’s tourism offer.
A Celebration of Passion and Community
Maurizio was shortlisted from dozens of nominations submitted by Local Visitor Economy Partnerships, destinations, employers and colleagues – recognition of his contribution to Lancashire’s food and tourism scene through his work at La Locanda over the past 22 years.
Andrew Stokes, Director of VisitEngland, said: “Our Tourism Superstar competition truly showcases the diversity of roles in our wonderful industry with all those involved demonstrating their passion for their places of work and destinations. It is their commitment to making visitors leave with magical memories that we are celebrating.”
For Maurizio, this nomination represents something deeply meaningful about the community we’re privileged to be part of.
“I was honestly surprised to find out I was one of the ten finalists,” Maurizio says. “For the last 22 years I have been a part of this incredible community where the people and local businesses support each other and celebrate Lancashire and all it has to offer – these are the real superstars.”
Lancashire's Seasonal Bounty
What drives Maurizio’s work is a passion for making the most of Lancashire’s wonderful seasonal ingredients, sourced from a growing number of inspiring and innovative local producers. His approach has always been about encouraging collaborations, sharing good healthy food, and building that sense of community – combining the tradition and culture of Italy with the honesty and hospitality of Lancashire, the place we’re so proud to call home.
Vikki Harris, Marketing and Partnerships Director of Marketing Lancashire, reflected on the nomination:
“Marketing Lancashire is always proud to see a Lancashire business shortlisted for awards, but the Tourism Superstar award is extra special. Maurizio, his wife Cinzia and their team work hard to create a unique experience for those visiting Lancashire and it’s brilliant that their work has been recognised.
“Making the shortlist is the perfect follow up from La Locanda’s success of winning the Taste of England Bronze Award at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023 and a brilliant way to honour everything they have done over the past 22 years, creating authentic Italian cuisine with local Lancashire produce.
“Maurizio is already a superstar in our eyes and we hope that votes from Lancashire and further afield will see them bringing this prestigious national title home.”
What Happens Next
Public voting opens in early February 2026 and runs until the end of English Tourism Week on 22nd March 2026. Short films featuring each finalist will be released to support the voting process – we’ll share ours as soon as it’s available.
The winner will be announced at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 this summer.
We’ll keep you posted as voting opens in February. If you’d like to support Maurizio’s nomination when the time comes, we’d be very grateful – but honestly, being selected as one of ten finalists from across the entire country already feels like recognition enough.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of La Locanda’s journey over these 22 years. This nomination reflects all of it.
Grazie mille,
Cinzia and Maurizio
