A BALLOCH cruise company has been given a much-coveted five star award by Scotland’s national tourist board.

Family business Sweeney’s Cruise Company, who have been operating boats on Loch Lomond since the 1880s, received the VisitScotland award on April 11.

Their accolade means that the service they provide has been deemed to be “exceptional”.

In a statement, the Sweeney’s Cruise Company team said they were absolutely delighted to receive the award, and extended their thanks to staff, past and present, as well as customers and partners.

They say it is the result of investing a great deal of time and effort into their products and services, while ensuring they were meeting customer demands and expectations all the while.

John Sweeney, who manages the business with the help of his family, said: “The five stars come as a result of our continued improvements to both our fleet and our service as a whole.

“Our collaboration with Scottish historian and broadcaster Neil Oliver for our on-board cruise commentary has been hugely successful and has helped improve the quality of our product.”