STAFF at a Winsford travel company are once again facing uncertainty - just 15 months after their business was saved.

The former Thomas Cook travel agent was shocked when the world's oldest travel firm collapsed in September 2019.

Despair turned to joy when Hays Travel announced a rescue deal, buying 555 Thomas Cook shops and saving 2,500 jobs.

Now, sadly, the lockdown and suspension of flights and holidays has forced Hays to close 89 branches, including the store in Jubilee Way in Winsford Cross Shopping Centre.

The shop is closing on Tuesday.

Hays said it is offering alternative work to 388 staff who will be affected by the closures.

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Dame Irene Hays, owner and chairman, said: "We had hoped the business would bounce back in January and it has not.

'We have done everything we could to safeguard jobs and the business thus far, and we have come up with a range of options for those at risk of redundancy to help as many colleagues as we can."

Chief operating officer Jonathon Woodall said that Hays would be 'ready for the bounce back when it comes'.

Staff are sad to see the Winsford shop close and want to thank customers for all their loyal support.

Vicky Jones, Sara Dickens and Sara Tompsett had worked together for 16 years and said they felt like a little family.

Vicky Jones said:"All of the Winsford team would just like to say thank you for all your continued support throughout the pandemic. It’s been a pleasure to help many of you make your dreams come true."

Sara Dickens said: "Thanks to the most fantastic team I have had the pleasure working with and to all our wonderful loyal customers.

"We are going to miss taking care of you and on behalf of all of us. Thanks again for your continued support."