Two marinas have become the latest sites to be recognised by the Gold Anchor award scheme.

Tollesbury in Essex (pictured above) and Lowestoft in Suffolk have been assessed by the award, which is run by The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) to help the public decide where to berth their boat.

Tollesbury Marina, a 250-berth facility near Malden that opened in 1970, has been awarded four Gold Anchors.

Julian Goode, who heads the family-run business, said: ‘We are delighted that Tollesbury Marina has been awarded Four Gold Anchors with the TYHA Gold Anchor Award Scheme.

‘This scheme serves as an excellent opportunity for marinas to undergo an independent audit, which covers many aspects of the marina operations, including health and safety, environmental issues, staffing, training, equipment, maintenance, marketing and customer service.’

140-berth Lowestoft Haven Marina has gone one better, receiving the top mark – five Gold Anchors.

Marina manager Sarah Hanna said: ‘I am thrilled with the award and credit goes to the team, who have all put in the effort over the last few years to maintain the high standards people have come to expect of us.

‘We are immensely proud and will continue to fly the flag for marina standards.’

The Gold Anchor Awards Scheme awards three to five Gold Anchors to marinas, which range from ‘safe and functional’ to ‘exceptional customer services, facilities and environmental practice’.

Gareth Turnbull, TYHA general manager, said: ‘Tollesbury and Lowestoft marinas are two excellent examples of forward-thinking
businesses going the extra mile to accommodate their customers.

‘It is encouraging to see that many marinas have joined the Gold Anchor Award
scheme in these difficult economic times to provide peace of mind to
berth holders and visiting yachtsmen.’

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