Hays Travel head office colleagues enjoy annual Summer Garden Party

Colleagues from across Hays Travel’s head office departments came together at the weekend for the annual Summer Garden Party.

Dame Irene Hays, owner and chair of the UK’s largest independent travel agent, and Jonathon Woodall-Johnston, the company’s chief operating officer, welcomed guests to the nearby Fire Station for an afternoon of fun in glorious sunshine.

The venue’s parade ground was transformed for the annual event which began decades ago at John and Irene’s home and is now a firm favourite for colleagues at Hays Travel’s Sunderland HQ.

Jonathon Woodall-Johnston kicked off Sunday’s party with a welcome speech, before guests put on their dancing shoes and enjoyed music from live band Cool as Vegas and a DJ; as well as a range of signature cocktails and street food.

In his address, Jonathon thanked colleagues for their hard work this year, adding: “This day of the year is really special for Dame Irene and many others.

“It has certainly been a difficult year with what has been happening in the Middle East, but each and everyone of you has supported our customers and each other.”

Dame Irene Hays said: “We had another memorable day at the Hays Travel Summer Garden Party. 

“Upholding this much-loved tradition is very important to us as it is a great way to thank our head office colleagues for their hard work behind the scenes.

“As always, I would like to thank the team at the Fire Station for their hospitality. As a business we are committed to supporting the communities where we operate, so it is fantastic we can host our event just a stone’s throw away from our Sunderland head office.”