By GEMMA BROWN

Published at 09:42, Friday, 29 January 2010

AN independent travel agents in Corbridge has doubled the number of its employees in the past 18 months.

Utopia Travel Company, on St Helen’s Street, is celebrating the New Year with two new additions to its team.

With more than six years of travel industry experience under her belt, West Mickley’s Kate Balmer has joined the company as a personal travel consultant.

Having specialised in long-haul travel during her career and visited many far-flung destinations, managing director, Angela O’Donnell, was keen to have Kate join the team.

Angela, from West Woodburn, said: “It’s great to have Kate on board. She’s an Australasia and worldwide specialist and has a huge amount of experience and knowledge.

“She has travelled extensively around Australia and New Zealand, North and South America and Asia, and is extremely enthusiastic.”

Kate’s appointment follows the arrival of sales and marketing specialist, Marta Mataus, last October.

Having relocated from Portugal in the spring, Marta has settled in Heddon and is now in charge of the company’s corporate business department.

Angela added: “The busy season is here for the travel industry.

“With the UK climate bitterly cold, but the economic climate starting to thaw, holidays are at the top of everyone’s to do list.

“We have already seen an increase in business year-on-year and we are expecting great things for the year ahead.”

Both new employees join existing personal travel consultants at the thriving business, Shauna Hardy from Corbridge and Tracy Leadbitter, from Harlow Hill.

Having opened its doors in June 2008, the company aims to offer everything from a bespoke round the world trip or exotic honeymoon to a city break or weekend theatre visit, with unique personal service.

For more information call 01434 636 960 or visit www.utopiatravelco.com

Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk