Coventry Music Museum founder wins national tourism award

A museum founder has won a major award for his work in creating "a magical place for music lovers" in Coventry.

Pete Chambers, who opened Coventry Music Museum more than 10 years ago, has been crowned VisitEngland's Tourism Superstar for 2024.

He won the most public votes for his success in "showing off the region's rich contribution to England's musical heritage".

Mr Chambers thanked supporters in a post on social media.

The 67-year-old, a volunteer and the museum's director and curator, was one of 10 finalists to be nominated.

The museum is run by volunteers and features exhibits from bands like The Specials and The Selecter.

He said last month he was over the moon to discover that one of the volunteers had nominated him for the award.

VisitEngland director Andrew Stokes said: "Tourism Superstar is all about recognising those people within England's tourism industry who go the extra mile for visitors, and whilst all the finalists are superstars there can be only one winner and we extend our huge congratulations to Pete.

"In the Coventry Music Museum, he has created a magical place for music lovers to connect with the region's rich contribution to England's musical heritage.

"His relationships with local musicians have brought unique exhibits to the museum, also drawing both domestic and international visitors to the wider area."

Congratulating him, Neil Rami, chief executive at the West Midlands Growth Company, said, the nationally significant achievement demonstrated the passion and expertise of the region's tourism sector.

"The dedication of our tourism representatives contributes significantly to the region's reputation within the UK and abroad - and fundamentally - helps to sustain an important aspect of both our economy and our culture," he said.

Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: [email protected]