THE six-strong team of travel advisors at Hexham’s Dawson & Sanderson branch started the new year by welcoming customers into a new-look store.

The Fore Street base was included in a £150,000 refurbishment programme of stores in Whitley Bay, Consett, Redcar and Hull.

As well as improved shop frontages and interiors, the latest travel technology has also been installed in stores to make booking holidays quicker and easier.

Each store held promotional days to welcome customers with the latest incentives and holiday deals.

Manager of the Hexham branch Neil Homewood said: “We celebrated our revamp with a champagne reception for our loyal customers who have booked with us over the years.

“It was a fantastic day and clients loved the new look of the store.”

Chris Harrison, managing director of the 54-year-old firm which opened its 22nd store at The Galleries in Washington last summer, said: “Many stores are right at the heart of the communities they serve with loyal customer bases built up over decades.

“These improvements undoubtedly attract new customers and we wanted to ensure that the investment reinforces our loyalty and commitment to these towns.

“The early indications are that 2017 is going to be a busy year.

“We are particularly noticing an increase in bookings for all-inclusive holidays and cruises so customers know exactly what they are paying and aren’t hit by any hidden extras while on holiday.”