Lancashire chef Maurizio Bocchi from La Locanda named VisitEngland Tourism Superstar 2026 finalist
The chef of a popular Ribble Valley Italian restaurant has been shortlisted for a prestigious award.
Maurizio Bocchi, chef and co-founder of La Locanda in Gisburn, has been selected as one of just ten national finalists in VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar 2026 competition.
Now in its 14th year, the Tourism Superstar competition celebrates individuals and teams across England’s visitor economy who go above and beyond to deliver outstanding experiences for visitors, while showcasing the diversity, quality and character of England’s tourism offer.
Maurizio was shortlisted from dozens of nominations submitted by Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs), destinations, employers and colleagues, recognising his contribution to Lancashire’s food and tourism scene through his work at La Locanda.
His selection places him among finalists representing a wide range of tourism roles, from heritage and events to guiding, volunteering and hospitality.
As a finalist, Maurizio will now compete for the title of VisitEngland Tourism Superstar 2026, which will be decided by a public vote hosted on VisitEngland’s website in February and March 2026. Short films featuring each finalist in their tourism role and promoting their local destination will support the public voting process.
Maurizio said: “I was honestly surprised to find out I was one of the ten finalists in the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar awards. For the last 22
years I have been a part of this incredible community where the people and local businesses support each other and celebrate Lancashire and all it has to offer - these are the real superstars.
“I try make the most of Lancashire’s wonderful seasonal ingredients, from a growing number of inspiring and innovative local producers and always look for ways to encourage collaborations. My passion is to share good healthy food and build that sense of community, combining the tradition and culture of Italy, with the honesty and hospitality of Lancashire, the place I’m so proud to call my home.”
Vikki Harris, marketing and partnerships director of Marketing Lancashire said: “Marketing Lancashire is always proud to see a Lancashire business shortlisted for awards, but the Tourism Superstar award is extra special. Maurizio, his wife Cinzia and their team work had to create a unique experience for those visiting Lancashire and it's brilliant that their work has been recognised.
"Making the shortlist is the perfect follow up from La Locanda's success of winning the Taste of England Bronze Award at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023 and a brilliant way to honour everything they have done over the past 22 years, creating authentic Italian cuisine with local Lancashire produce.
“Maurizio is already a superstar in our eyes and we hope that votes from Lancashire and further afield will see them bringing this prestigious national title home.”
The public vote will open in early February 2026 and run until the end of English Tourism Week, taking place from March 13th to 22nd. The finalist receiving the highest number of votes will be crowned Tourism Superstar 2026, with the award presented at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 in the summer.