DAVID Simpson, founder of bird-watching holiday specialists Branta Travel, has died at the age of 69.
Simpson’s first position in the industry was with Clarkson Holidays in 1968 where he was area manager.
The package holiday giant sent Simpson out to Spain in 1968 where he was involved in the setting up of Benidorm’s Lemon Express tourist-train attraction and the company’s barbecue evenings.
In 1981, he returned to Britain and set up Branta Travel which he ran with his wife Anna.
Friend and travel industry analyst Michael East said: “He was known within the industry as a really decent man.”