MANCHESTER Airport has been crowned LGBT-Friendly Travel Company of the Year at the annual Travel Trade Gazette Awards, which were hosted by Chatty Man Alan Carr.

The airport beat competition from Thomas Cook Group, James Villa Holidays, Flight Centre and Kuoni, to name a few.

The event was held at the Lyceum Theatre in London, followed by an after party at the Savoy Hotel.

Manchester Airport was awarded the gong after its strong on-going commitment to the LGBT agenda in travel.

It comes after sponsoring six UK Prides in 2018, up from five in 2017. In addition the airport has a diversity agenda for its staff and supports inclusivity initiatives across its vast catchment area and beyond.

The award was collected by Patrick Alexander and Olivia Bussey from the airport’s marketing team, and Seb Thompson from the press office.

Patrick said: “It is a real honour to take home this award and I’d like to thank everyone who voted for us, plus the team at TTG.

“It’s been a great evening with the travel industry’s finest on show and it’s a delight to take home the award for LGBT-Friendly travel company of the year.”

Seb added: “After a busy summer celebrating prides across the UK it fills me with pride and joy to win this accolade.

“Everyone at the airport will be over the moon, and we look forward to continuing to champion the LGBT agenda in 2019.”