The British Travel Awards were held in London last week, with Manchester Airport again receiving the major honour.

Manchester was named as Airport of the Year in the UK for the second consecutive year running, ahead of competition from London Heathrow, Belfast City, Leeds Bradford and Glasgow. The voting was made by both travel professionals and consumers whose votes were based on the criteria of customer satisfaction, sustainability and use of technology.

According to the commercial director of Manchester Airport Andrew Harrison the award represents a huge accomplishment, with the prestigious title being won for the second year in a row testament to the hard work and dedication that his team have shown in attaining their successes over the past 12 months.

In other awards, Barcelona was named as favourite city break destination for Britons beating traditional rival Paris. In the countries section, the United States was voted most popular for visitors ahead of Italy.

In airline awards, British Airways was voted top European scheduled airline while Virgin Atlantic was named leading long-haul operator. American Airlines took out the honour of being voted top carrier of the year.

The Co-Operative Travel and Travellers world were voted best UK travel agencies ahead of Flight Centre, Thomas Cook, Global Travel Group and First Choice. Cunard again won top cruise line with Disney Cruises named best niche operator.

Avis Europe was named as the best car hire company.