Sunderland landmarks lit up in Hays Travel colours in tribute to John Hays

Landmarks across Sunderland have been lit in tribute to city businessman John Hays and the charitable foundation he created.
By Kevin Clark
Published 24th Nov 2020, 18:15 BST
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Mr Hays was founder of Hays Travel and the Hays Travel Foundation which supports young people to achieve their potential.

Their blue and orange colours are a familiar sight in Sunderland city centre where Hays has its HQ and in hundreds of high streets across the United Kingdom.He died aged 71, on Friday, November 13, after collapsing at work.

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The well-respected and much-loved businessman co-owned the travel company with wife Irene, and built Hays Travel into the UK’s largest independent travel agent.

Keel Square lit up in blueKeel Square lit up in blue
Keel Square lit up in blue

Last year the firm bought the Thomas Cook retail estate when it collapsed saving thousands of jobs.

At dusk on Tuesday, November 24, the Northern Spire bridge, Penshaw Monument, Fulwell Mill, Seaburn Lighthouse, Hylton Castle, Beacon of Light and Keel Square outside the company's HQ, at Gilbridge House were lit to mark in the company’s colours to mark his passing.They will be illuminated again tomorrow from dusk to dawn after his funeral.READ MORE: Hays Travel Foundation fundraiser in memory of John Hays tops £22,000

News of John Hays’ death prompted an outpouring of tributes from staff, customers and members of Sunderland’s business community and the public.

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He was described as a ‘true gent’ and an ‘amazing boss’ who put Sunderland on the map and who treated his staff like family.

Hays Travel owner John Hays died while 'doing the job he loved' aged 71Hays Travel owner John Hays died while 'doing the job he loved' aged 71
Hays Travel owner John Hays died while 'doing the job he loved' aged 71

Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Graeme Miller said: "It was a shock to so many people to hear of John's death. It's fitting that we have a visible tribute and with a book of condolences there is the opportunity to mark his passing in words.

"John was always deeply loyal and committed to Sunderland and the North East region and we thank him for that. I know many other people feel the same, and he was loved and admired by many people in the city and beyond."

A book of condolence is online at: https://www.sunderland.gov.uk/article/17730/Book-of-condolenceIn 2016, the City Council awarded Mr Hays the Freedom of the City in recognition for his services to the community.

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Landmarks across Sunderland have been lit in tribute to city businessman John HaysLandmarks across Sunderland have been lit in tribute to city businessman John Hays
Landmarks across Sunderland have been lit in tribute to city businessman John Hays

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Related topics:SunderlandGraeme Miller