Tributes have been paid to former Coach Tourism Council chief executive Chris Wales (71), who died last week.
A statement from the Coach Tourism Association – which used to be the Coach Tourism Council – said: “We are devastated to bring you the very sad news that Chris Wales has lost his battle with cancer. We are all finding it hard to believe that we won’t see him again lighting up a room with his boundless enthusiasm and hearty welcomes.
“Chris is known to so many people with such affection and all of us will have very special memories of him which we will cherish.
“Of course, while Chris is so well known across the coach tourism business, we should also remember that he was a much-loved partner, brother, uncle and friend. We are sure that everyone joins us in offering our heartfelt condolences to his family and close friends.”
He had a successful career in the coach tourism industry, joining what was European Ferries – parent company of ferry operator Townsend Thoresen, in 1977 – where he became sales manager before moving to a similar role at Sealink (later Stena Line) in 1987.
He then helped Eurotunnel to launch its cross-channel service before becoming head of sales at Wightlink, where he helped establish the Coach Tourism Council in 1990.
He continued to be involved with the organisation, returning as chief executive in 2003/4 and guiding its transition to become the Coach Tourism Association.
He was also behind the launch of the Association of British Tour Operators to France (Abtof) and he was a former chairman of the Institute of Travel & Tourism.
Many colleagues and friends have paid warm tributes to him on LinkedIn, including Harold Burke, sales director at The UK Holiday Group.
“You always knew when Chris was in the room. It will be less bright without him. A great loss,” said Burke.
The funeral will be at Peterborough Crematorium, at 1pm on December 19, and afterwards at the Blue Bell in Maxey.