John Hays of Hays Travel has sadly died.

[stanleycamel]

Very sad news coming from the North East today - John Hays founder of Hays Travel with his wife Irene has died.

Copy of statement released on behalf of Hays Travel today:-

" "It is with the deepest sadness and regret that we have to announce that John Hays, the founder and managing director of Hays Travel, died today, while doing the job he loved.

"John, who with his wife and co-owner Irene Hays bought the Thomas Cook retail estate a year ago, was at work in the company’s Sunderland head office when he collapsed.

"John built Hays Travel into the UK’s largest independent travel agent providing jobs and careers for thousands of young people over 40 years.

"Throughout this past difficult year he did everything in his power to save jobs and protect the travel industry.

"He was held in immense respect by his staff, colleagues, family and friends and was recognised throughout his life for his many achievements.

"He was equally proud of his loyal staff who, under the direction of the board and senior management team, will ensure that the business continues to serve the customers of the UK’s largest independent travel agent as he would have wanted."


RIP - John.

[silverfox46]

A very sad post, he seemed such a nice guy.

[Fireworks]

Oh, that is so so sad. They were trying to do a brilliant thing saving all those Thomas Cook shops and it has been a nightmare for them.

[RachaelC]

Very sad news. Some of my former colleagues were employed by Hays Travel when TC went under and I know they will be very sad today 😢

My thoughts are with his family.

[Kat11]

Gutted. They are friends of my mum and dads. They didn’t see them often but they’ve known each other for over 40 years I think. 😢

Kat

[MarBell]

Oh that's such sad news, he and his wife did so much to try and rescue the travel industry.

[Scaramouche]

Had a message about this just before 3pm. Very sad 😞 a lot of people in shock right now . RIP John.

[Inky]

Very sad news , condolences to his family.

[linder]

That’s a shame they’ve worked so hard to help people this year

[sam7]

Very sad news. He seemed such a nice guy. Thoughts are with his family