A travel agent is celebrating 40 years of making dreams come true for holidaymakers in Dorset.

Julie Furness, who works at Hays Travel Poole, began her career in the industry in 1986 when she was 17.

And since that time, she has worked in a number of branches across the county – making many friends and helping loyal customers.

Julie, whose first job was as a travel consultant at Bath Travel in Ferndown, said: “I have done all sorts of things over the years, and my career has taken me from Ferndown, to Westbourne, to Poole.

“I have never got bored of it. I just absolutely love it, and I never want to leave.”

Julie has held several senior positions over the years and now works three days a week as a travel consultant in Hays Travel’s Poole branch, after the UK’s largest independent travel agency acquired Bath Travel in 2013.

She said: “There were no apprentices when I first started. Things have completely changed. It was really difficult to get into management in those days. I didn’t reach that stage until I was 28, having worked as a travel consultant, a deputy manager and assistant branch manager.

“I am lucky to have many regular customers, all of whom have become friends. I love that people I have known for so long continue to come into the branch. I also get lots of WhatsApp and text messages.”

Julie, who says she enjoys Mediterranean getaways and city breaks when she can, also had some advice for those just starting their careers in the travel industry.

She said: “Some people may not be sure what being a travel consultant involves when they first start out.

“My advice would be to get your head into it, work hard and keep going – otherwise you won’t get anywhere. It’s all about commitment to your customers.”

Clive Hill, Hays Travel’s Regional Sales Manager for Dorset and the New Forest, said: “Julie really is an amazing colleague. With her impeccable service, willingness to go the extra mile and attention to detail, it is little wonder she has so many loyal customers who have become lifelong friends.

“Reaching a 40-year milestone in any industry is a remarkable achievement and I would like to pass on my congratulations on behalf of all the team in the Dorset and New Forest region.”