A Southbourne travel agent says she feels “extremely proud” after her company was named the UK and Ireland’s No.1 travel agency.

Swords Travel was awarded the accolade in the TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies 2021 ceremony.

It was singled out for its success in adapting to new ways of working throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Despite the significant challenges faced by the travel industry, Swords launched its own network of regionally based associates.

The company also modified its process to secure bookings through new ventures such as virtual events while also growing the team throughout 2020.

Mark Swords, Managing Director, said: “It’s an honour to be awarded the UK & Ireland’s No.1 Travel Agency after one of the toughest years that the travel industry has ever faced.

“Thank you to TTG for choosing us as the winners, it’s a real boost to the team who have worked tirelessly through such challenging times.

“Throughout the year, like everyone in the travel industry, we’ve faced significant difficulties, but we’re so proud to have grown our team and championed each other every step of the way.

“We’d also like to thank all our amazing customers who’ve supported us throughout the pandemic and have remained patient in the face of changing rules and regulations and disrupted travel plans.

“We’re looking forward to travel reopening so we can do what we love most – helping people plan and take their holiday of a lifetime.”

Luxury Travel Associate Carla Hutchings, who covers the south coast and further afield for Swords Travel from her Southbourne home, has worked in the travel industry for 19 years and travelled extensively.

She started as a modern apprentice at Thomas Cook in Poole before progressing into senior roles.

Her last ten years were in field sales management, working for various tour operators representing long haul, tailormade and luxury travel.

Carla, who joined Swords Travel in January this year as one of seven associates, said: “The past year has been a difficult year for the travel industry so to win this award is fantastic

“In my travel career I have personally been nominated, and won, various travel awards.

“Joining Swords Travel, named Number 1 Travel Agent for the UK & Ireland, makes me extremely proud.

“Having lived locally all my life, with my last five years in Southbourne I’m delighted to be representing an award-winning travel agency in my home town.”

Swords Travel is a member of the Travel Network Group.

Gary Lewis, CEO, said: “It’s fantastic to see that our members are being recognised for their efforts throughout the most challenging twelve months for the industry.

“The UK & Ireland’s No. 1 Travel Agency is a very prestigious award to win.

“It commends the company that has truly outshone the rest of the nominees over the past year so the team at Swords Travel should be very proud of themselves and the work they have done.”

Swords Travel was founded by Mark and Stuart Sword, pictured, in 2016.

The company specialises in personalised luxury travel itineraries tailored to the needs of each client.

At the virtual awards ceremony, Swords Travel was also awarded the TTG Top 50 Top Agency in London under the regional categories.

• swordstravel.co.uk