A WOMAN who suffered a serious gastric illness during what was supposed to be a relaxing holiday in Egypt has been awarded a £22,500 payout.

Mandy Davis, from Darlington, booked a ten-day stay at the Tropicana Rosetta and Jasmine Club resort, in Sharm-el-Sheikh, in 2013.

Just days into the holiday, she began to suffer with diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps and a high temperature.

Some 18 months on, she continues to suffer problems related to the illness, which caused her to lose a significant amount of weight.

The 32-year-old social worker instructed specialist international personal injury lawyers to investigate the cause of her illness.

Her legal team, from law firm Irwin Mitchell, has secured a five-figure settlement from tour operator TUI UK Ltd, which admitted primary liability for her illness.

Ms Davis said she is relieved to be able to put the terrible holiday experience behind her.

During her stay at the three-star resort, she occasionally witnessed food on the buffet exposed for long periods of time, saw fresh food added to old food and saw some birds and flies in the restaurant while food was prepared and served.

Jatinder Paul, an expert travel lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, said: “Mandy’s case shows just how much of an impact an illness can have, as she continues to suffer with problems related to her illness.

“She has been forced to alter her diet to reduce the frequency of these problems and we are now delighted to have secured a settlement for Mandy to cover the cost of her ruined holiday and the ongoing problems she endures.

“It is important that tour operators take note of this case and ensure that their customers’ health is protected by ensuring the hotels they are advertising have the appropriate hygiene standards."

Ms Davis said: "Holidays are supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable, but the ten days spent at this resort were absolutely awful and my ongoing health issues related to the illness act as a constant reminder of my terrible experience.

"No amount of money can make up for the impact this illness has had on my life, but now that I know TUI will be held responsible for the failings at the resort, I can begin to move forward with my life.

“I can only hope my case has helped to improve the food and hygiene standards at the resort and other people staying there don’t have to suffer in the same way I have.”

The Northern Echo contacted TUI for comment, but has yet to receive a reply.