A company statement announced his tragic passing on Friday, November 13. John, alongside wife and co-owner Irene, built Hays Travel into the UK's largest independent travel agent over a four-decade period, providing thousands of young people with job opportunities. As the industry pays tribute, we take a look at John’s hard work, and lasting legacy through his company, in pictures.
1. Partnership
John pictured with wife and business co-owner Irene. Photo: JPI
2. Pride
Hays Travel bought the Thomas Cook retail estate a year ago, saving thousands of jobs when the firm collapsed. Photo: Stu Norton
3. Success
John and Irene Hays won the Overall Business of the Year prize at the Sunderland Echo Portfolio Awards in 2019. Photo: Kevin Brady
4. Headquarters
John and Irene Hays outside the company headquarters in Keel Square, Sunderland. Picture: Craig Connor / NNP. Photo: Craig Connor / NNP