TV and radio star Jack Marriner-Brown set to host 2026 REYTAs

‘THRILLED’: Jack Marriner-Brown is the host of this year’s REYTAs

By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor

‍A Bridlington man who shot to fame on popular TV series The Traitors is set to host Hull and East Yorkshire’s biggest celebration of tourism as a record number of entries have flooded in.

Jack Marriner-Brown will take to the stage as host of the 16th annual Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards (REYTAs), which this year will be held at Bridlington Spa.

The glittering awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, November 18, bringing together hundreds of people from across the region’s visitor economy to celebrate the businesses and individuals helping make Hull and East Yorkshire one of the UK’s most exciting destinations.

Jack was a contestant in series three of The Traitors UK in 2025. He is also a BBC Morning Live presenter and radio host on BBC Radio Humberside.

Jack said: “East Yorkshire is that beautiful gem in our country’s crown that made me.

“Being from Bridlington - a stone’s throw from the Spa - my parents, like many people in our town, had a business that relied on tourism.

“It’s people like them, and the businesses that have been nominated for an award, that keep our little corner of the world ticking along.

“I’m thrilled to be able to shine a light on these amazing people and give thanks to the hardworking organisations in an industry that is often full of its fair share of thankless tasks.”

Organised by Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY), the REYTAs recognise excellence across every corner of the visitor economy, from attractions and accommodation providers to restaurants, pubs, events, visitor experiences and local producers.

VHEY is the region’s accredited Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), funded by Hull City Council and East Riding Council and supported by private sector partners with a shared ambition to grow the visitor economy.

The REYTAs have become one of the region’s most respected business awards programmes, with eligible winners progressing to the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence and helping showcase Hull and East Yorkshire on the national stage.

Chris Blacksell, Chair of VHEY, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Jack as this year’s REYTAs host.

“He is a local Bridlington man who has seen some real momentum in his broadcasting profile since his appearance on The Traitors.

TOURISM CELEBRATION: The REYTAs were last held at Bridlington Spa in 2024 and the event will return this year

“He has also done some great work with Hull Trains through social media campaigns, encouraging people to travel and visit the area, and he has been very generous in supporting the HEY! Volunteering programme.

“The ethos of the REYTAs is about championing local businesses and we’ve received a record number of entries this year.

“We’re bringing together local talent, tourism and someone who genuinely supports the destination together for another very special evening.”

The REYTAs continue to recognise the businesses, organisations and individuals raising standards across the region’s visitor economy, rewarding excellence while helping winners and finalists raise their profile both locally and nationally.

Entries for this year’s awards are now closed, with the exception of the Remarkable Tourism Event of the Year category, which closes on Monday, August 31.

Judging will once again include independent judging panels and mystery shopper assessments. The REYTAs have once again been awarded ‘Outstanding’ in the Awards Trust Mark Accreditation, recognising their transparency, integrity and impact.

Councillor Jackie Dad, deputy leader of Hull City Council, said: “The REYTAs are a fantastic showcase for everything that makes Hull and East Yorkshire such a special place to visit.

“We’re delighted Jack will compere this year’s event as he is a huge advocate for the area. I’m sure he will be an excellent host as we celebrate the many exceptional businesses and individuals across our visitor economy.”

Councillor Nick Coultish, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding Council, said: “Every year the REYTAs highlight the quality, creativity and innovation that exists throughout our visitor economy, and I’m delighted to see the awards return to Bridlington Spa.

“They celebrate the businesses and people who help create unforgettable experiences for visitors while supporting jobs, investment and local communities.

“As the judges prepare to look at this year’s outstanding entries, we’re once again looking forward to sharing the stories behind the businesses and individuals, ensuring they gain the recognition they deserve.”

Fred Marketing is also confirmed as headline sponsor for the 2026 REYTAs.

• For more information about the REYTAs visit https://visithullandeastyorkshire.co.uk/remarkable-east-yorkshire-tourism-awards/