ST Andrews Travel, Bolton has become the 500th member of ARTAC WorldChoice, the UK's largest group of independent leisure travel agents.

Managing director Andrew Dickson is keen to take advantage of the organisation's financial strength, negotiating power and unique value for money offers with leading tour operators.

St Andrews Travel, which was established 11 years ago, is the current Bolton Company of the Year in the Bolton Business Awards.

Mr Dickson said: "There is an enormous amount of competition in the holiday industry at the moment and, although we expect to turn over near £8m this year (an increase of 11 per cent), the benefits of joining an organisations specifically geared towards independents are numerous.

"In particular, we hope to take advantage of a national advertising and marketing campaign as well as special deals with leading tour operators."

Bob Taylor, membership services director of ARTAC WorldChoice, said: "We are delighted to welcome such a prestigious and well-known name as St Andrews on board."

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