There was much to celebrate as individuals, companies and organisations across the UK coach and coach tourism industry were recognised and rewarded at the UK Coach Awards 2013, which took place on Saturday 20 April at Alton Towers Resort. It was part of a two-day celebration, with the UK Coach Rally taking place over the same weekend.

BBC TV's Carol Kirkwood is to again host the awards ceremony in 2013. This will be the fifth consecutive year that Ms Kirkwood has acted as compere and will be good news for her many fans amongst the guests.

The finalists in the 2013 UK Coach Awards have been revealed, and all share a common ability, according to the Awards organisers – “they give their customers a warm welcome and great service,” says chairman Allan Edmondson.

Organisers of April's combined UK Coach Rally & Awards have announced that judging of the Coach Awards element will be getting under way in mid-January. Over 170 nominations have been received across 18 award categories, with three weeks to go before the final closing date.

A short video recorded at the 2012 Presentation Ceremony records reactions to the event and comments on current trends.