We’re delighted to shine a spotlight on one of Durham’s most dedicated and passionate ambassadors – Jimmy Nicol, who has been shortlisted for the prestigious VisitEngland Tourism Superstar 2026 award.

Jimmy is 87 years old and a volunteer guide at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens for many years. A familiar and much‑loved face at Raby Castle, where his commitment, enthusiasm and genuine love for the county have made a lasting impression on visitors from near and far.

Whether he’s welcoming guests in Spanish, sharing fascinating local stories, or proudly promoting everything the county has to offer, Jimmy embodies the very best of our tourism industry.

In this special Q&A, Jimmy talks about his passion for volunteering, his highlights from Raby Castle, and why representing Durham on a national stage means so much to him.

What makes volunteering such an important part of your life?

"We live in an amazing county with an incredible variety of places to visit and things to do. I love this area and I want to do my utmost to promote the region when and wherever possible and volunteering is one of the ways I’m able to do this. I also love meeting people during my volunteering, whether they’re local or from further afield. 

I’ve lived in County Durham for over 60 years and I feel as though I'm able to give something back to this wonderful part of the country." 

How does it feel to have reached the national final of the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar Awards?

"It is a true honour. I was over the moon to be nominated for the local Durham Tourism Superstar awards, but to now represent Raby Castle, Durham and the wider North East region on a national level is a huge privilege and I’m extremely proud to have this opportunity." 

Looking back over your time at Raby, what moments or experiences stand out as real highlights?

"Winning the Durham Tourism Superstar award in 2025 for my volunteering at Raby was a huge highlight for me. It was a wonderful feeling to receive the recognition from my colleagues who nominated me and from the county too.

Speaking on BBC Radio 2 was another amazing moment. I was interviewed by Paddy McGuiness last year when cheering on Sara Cox during her ‘Children in Need’ challenge and it was a great opportunity to speak highly about the area and Raby."

What is it about Raby Castle, Park and Gardens that you love most?

"Quite simply, I love everything about Raby. The legacy of the castle, including the role it has played in English history, the stunning interiors and impressive collections inside, as well as the beautiful surroundings in the deer park. 

Raby Castle, Park and Gardens attracts visitors from all over the world and the most important thing for me is to give them a very warm welcome. I’m very proud to help visitors enjoy all that Raby has to offer. 

The people at Raby are absolutely amazing and really do make volunteering there a true joy. I feel very lucky that I get to work with a fabulous bunch of colleagues. I also think the way that Lord and Lady Barnard have helped Raby become an integral part of the community over the years, particularly following the major development in 2024, is a truly wonderful thing." 

What do you cherish most about Durham and its communities?

"I am very passionate about the county and everything it has to offer. I admire the beautiful natural landscapes across the county, the people, the history and the vibrant culture. It really does feel like one big community, everyone is so welcoming and looks out for each other and I feel so lucky I get to represent the county. 

I once sent a County Durham calendar to the Spanish royal family, along with information about the area as a Christmas present and I was both surprised, and delighted to receive a Christmas card from them in return! The number of speakers of the Spanish language reach nearly half a billion, so it would be amazing if we could bring a number of them to the region.

I have also received letters of thanks from Kensington Palace for the calendars and brochures regarding Raby and Durham and it’s so lovely to have this acknowledgement for this special part of the country."

You speak Spanish brilliantly, Jimmy. What inspired you to learn the language, and how has speaking Spanish enriched your life?

"I’ve always been fascinated with languages and I have a keen interest in the Spanish culture too, so learning this language seemed like a natural next step. To now use my knowledge of the Spanish language to help Raby's Spanish visitors is a wonderful thing for me. I'm able to explain the castle’s fascinating history and share some of the amazing stories about this medieval fortress to elevate their experience, ensuring they leave feeling even more enlightened about Raby." 

Finally, what top tips would you share with anyone planning their first visit or a return trip to the county?

"I think the county is a hidden gem, with its world-class heritage, dramatic landscapes, and charming towns. My tip would be to really think about what interests you the most and focus on arranging some of your time in the county around that – but also don’t be afraid to branch out and do something a little different, as I’m sure it will wow and amaze you."

Jimmy’s warmth, dedication and pride in County Durham shine through in everything he does, and we’re incredibly proud to see him represent our region in the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar 2026 competition.

Now, he needs your support.

If Jimmy’s story has inspired you, or if he’s helped make your visit to Raby Castle or Durham extra special, please take a moment to cast your vote.

Vote for Jimmy in the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar competition here.

Every vote helps celebrate not only Jimmy, but the passion, kindness and community spirit that make Durham such a special place to visit.