The founder of the UK's largest independent travel agent, Hays Travel, has died after collapsing at the firm's head office.
John Hays was the managing director of the Sunderland-based firm, alongside his wife and co-owner Irene.
It famously took on more than 2,000 former Thomas Cook employees when that company went bust in October last year.
Mr Hays died "while doing the job he loved" and was "held in immense respect" by staff, a statement said.
The company has been in business for 40 years.
In a tribute to Mr Hays, the firm said: "Throughout this past difficult year he did everything in his power to save jobs and protect the travel industry.
"He was held in immense respect by his staff, colleagues, family and friends and was recognised throughout his life for his many achievements.
"He was equally proud of his loyal staff," it added.
Before it took on hundreds of Thomas Cook shops last year, Hays had 190 shops, 1,900 staff, and sales of £379m, reporting profits of £10m.
He described the purchase as "a game-changer" which almost trebled the firm's number of shops and doubled its workforce.
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https://news.google.com/__i/rss/rd/articles/CBMiM2h0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmJiYy5jby51ay9uZXdzL3VrLWVuZ2xhbmQtdHluZS01NDkzMzQxMNIBN2h0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmJiYy5jby51ay9uZXdzL2FtcC91ay1lbmdsYW5kLXR5bmUtNTQ5MzM0MTA?oc=5
2020-11-13 16:39:00Z
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