HOLIDAYMAKERS in north-west Durham are preparing for take-off, when an expanding North-East travel company opens its latest premises.

Hays Travel's Consett branch will be the company's 33rd store in the region, re-enforcing its status as the Association of British Travel Agents' largest independently owned agency.

It follows two recent travel trade accolades achieved by the Sunderland-based company, which was established in 1980.

Hays was named both North-East and Yorkshire Travel Agency of the Year, at the 11th Agent Achievement Awards, while also receiving recognition in the Best Companies 2007 Accreditation list.

Jane Schumm, Hays Travel's retail general manager, said: "We're delighted to be expanding our North-East retail portfolio by opening a new shop in Consett.

"At a time when many travel agents are closing shops, it is great to open new ones and reinforce our faith in staff and the retail travel agent.

"The new branch will allow us to extend our expert, impartial advice and special offers to the people of Derwentside."

The Middle Street store opens on Thursday, May 24,with several launch offers for customers.