West Country cottage specialist, Helpful Holidays, has scooped The Sunday Times 2013 travel editor's choice award, which was presented at a glittering evening event overlooking Valetta's Harbour in Malta.

In describing his choice, Stephen Bleach, Travel Editor of The Sunday Times said that "Renting a property through Helpful is like having it chosen by a like-minded friend" and that they "offer a simple service done superbly well".

Delighted with the unexpected accolade, Moray Bowater, General Manager, Helpful Holidays who travelled to Malta to receive the award said: "We're thrilled to have been honoured with such a prestigious award and with such kind words because small company care with big company efficiency is what we aim for. For over 30 years, the Helpful Holidays team's aim has been to ensure our holidaymakers have happy holidays and it's great for all of us to have had our particular ethos and work recognised in such an encouraging way. Great credit too must go to our diligent band of owners and caretakers whose hard work creates holiday homes of great quality and who dependably deliver on the promises we make".

Helpful Holidays delivers on the expectations it raises, endorsed by a Silver British Travel Award for two years in succession in the Best UK cottage/self-catering booking company category. The agency has again been nominated for a 2013 British Travel Award; with results to be announced on 31st October the team has great hopes for gold this year. It is also a recommended provider for cottage and villa bookings by Which? travel, having come top in their members' survey for 2012 and 2013.

The agency has more than 600 places to stay in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset ranging from romantic retreats for two up to big country houses sleeping a maximum of 48 guests. All the properties are regularly and carefully inspected and star rated by the agency's own team so they can advise holidaymakers honestly through first-hand experience. Holidaymakers can always speak to someone who has visited any property and get answers to questions the website or brochure might not answer.  Many of the places are exceptionally plush and the agency has a deserved
reputation for offering big and beautiful houses.

Every property on www.helpfulholidays.com has a map showing attractions, activities, events and eateries nearby plus a full and frank description, several images and, in some cases, a video or audio tour; most also have a number of independent reviews by holidaymakers so guests know what to expect and can plan their holidays with confidence.

For press enquiries and images please contact:

Pat Edgar, PR Matters                                            
Tel:      01494 764932 
Mobile: 07836 786043

Email: PRMatters@dsl.pipex.com