ABTA and Federation of Tour Operators founder member Rene Chandler died peacefully at her home in Upminster, Essex, on Friday, June 20, aged 95.
Rene became instrumental in the foundation of both these groups after setting up her own tour operator The Travel Club of Upminster with husband Harry in 1936. She was particularly concerned with ensuring consumers had adequate financial protection.
ABTA president Justin Fleming said: : “I had the pleasure of knowing Rene for over 30 years from my earliest days in the industry. I worked with her and Harry in TOSG and latterly the FTO and I have very fond memories of both exciting business times and some very enjoyable social occasions.
“It goes without saying that Rene and Harry were true pioneers of the industry who provided great role models. She will be greatly missed.”