A NORTH-EAST firm of travel agents is celebrating after winning an award for its commitment to staff development.

Hays Travel, of Sunderland, has won an Investor in People status in awards organised by Business Link and the Learning and Skills Council Tyne and Wear.

The firm, which has 400 employees, is the biggest independent travel agent in the region.

Managing director John Hays said: "I was particularly delighted that the assessors highlighted the fact that we have a dedicated, willing workforce who are keen, enthusiastic, loyal and supportive not only of the business itself but also the top management.

"Many of our managers started with us as modern apprentices and this too was highlighted. We work hard to make sure our people can progress their careers with us.

"We work very much as a team. Our continuing success is rooted in the fact that we've been able to control, develop and re-invent ourselves within a highly competitive industry - and you can't do that without a supportive and committed workforce.''