A COTSWOLDS cottage holiday business which only started up last year has won a national award.

Cotswold Cottage Gems, run by Gemma Elizabeth Conway, scooped the Multi-Property Wizard Award at the prestigious eviivo Awards, which recognise and reward the best independent hosts and hoteliers across the UK.

The business began with just one cottage in May last year, but now owns six luxurious cottages located across the Cotswolds, including Stow on the Wold and Moreton in Marsh, plus The Lansdowne, a 14-bedroom boutique guesthouse which serves breakfast, in Bourton-on-the-Water.

Ms Conway said: “We’re thrilled to win the award which is a testament to all the hard work of our super team of local suppliers and colleagues.

“Our bespoke concierge service is there for guests ensuring they have a fabulous stay in the Cotswolds and has included arranging personal chefs to cook meals at the cottages; make local bookings; and I have even been known to drive guests to local pubs and collect them at the end of the evening.

"Perhaps the oddest request was for me to look after a guest’s dog at my home for the duration of her stay, and ensure it only drank bottled water. All part of the service!”

The eviivo awards are now in their sixth year and highlight the best of Britain’s world-class and world-famous independent accommodation – from bed and breakfasts and guest houses to vacation rentals and inns.