Industry News

Kynren’s head of volunteer casting and engagement is flying the flag for the North East in VisitEngland’s national tourism superstar award – and voting is now open.

Wendy Wilshere is one of ten finalists in the prestigious national competition which celebrates the dedication and passion of the industry’s employees and volunteers.

With finalists from other areas across the country including Norfolk, Devon and Essex, Wendy is the only finalist from the North East of England after winning Durham Tourism Superstar in 2024, an annual event organised by Visit County Durham, Durham County Council’s tourism service. The accolade recognised her dedication to Kynren and its volunteers.

The winner is decided by public vote and Kynren is encouraging everyone to support Wendy and cast their vote which is now open.

Speaking about her finalist placement, Wendy said: “It is a wonderful privilege to represent the north east in such an important national competition and I hope I do our region proud.

“Every day I think how lucky I am to do my role at Kynren. I get to work alongside so many wonderful people, providing support to the volunteers whilst spreading the word about the phenomenal production at different events too. I’m incredibly passionate about the show – not only to create unforgettable performances that wow our audiences throughout the summer, but also the integral role it plays to support our region and the tourism economy.”

As part of her position at the live action outdoor theatre spectacular in Bishop Auckland, Wendy looks after and organises all the volunteers.

This includes setting up open calls to recruit new volunteers, helping to write schedules and timetables whilst also circulating clear communications and updates with team leaders and the volunteers themselves.

Wendy also ensures she is present at as many local events and county shows as possible to reach new audiences, as well as national travel trade events to spread awareness about Kynren and County Durham. 

Anna Warnecke, CEO at Kynren said: “Wendy is without doubt one of the most hardworking and caring people I have ever had the pleasure of working with.

“Her role as head of volunteer casting and engagement is absolutely integral to the success of Kynren. Without Wendy to organise, look after and communicate with the volunteers, we simply wouldn’t be able to perform this show, which in turn is vital to bring tourism and visitors to the area.

“She is a highly respected and well thought of member of the team and all the volunteers feel incredibly lucky she is there to look after them. Her passion for Kynren is infectious, and it’s clear to see Wendy’s pride and the passion for not just the show, but the local area too, alongside her drive to make it a better place for generations to come.”

Wendy has been a volunteer with Kynren since the show's first season and her experience as a volunteer itself is essential – it means she knows what volunteers need to make their journey as rewarding and meaningful as possible. She then became an employed team member in 2024 to help drive forward the success of Kynren.

Michelle Gorman, managing director at Visit County Durham said: “We are incredibly proud of Wendy’s achievement in making the final ten in the tourism superstar award and she is a shining beacon at Kynren. It is fantastic that our Durham Tourism Superstar winner has been shortlisted for the national award.

“She is immensely dedicated and is a huge advocate for the role Kynren plays in the region as a visitor attraction and I encourage everyone in the North East to support and vote for Wendy as their tourism superstar.”

Vote for Wendy Wilshere in VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar competition.