Hays Travel agents raise thousands with skydive, walk and fun day

Hays Travel agents from across northern England have raised thousands of pounds to support local charities, through activities such as a skydive, moonlight walk and a family fun day.

Gabby Bober, from Hays Travel on Market Place in Thirsk, raised more than £400 with a skydive at Sky-High Skydiving in Durham to raise money for Herriot Hospice.

She said: “I completed a skydive from 14,000 feet, and what an incredible experience it was.

“It was equal parts exciting, nerve-wracking and unforgettable. Jumping out of the plane was something I’ll never forget and the views were absolutely amazing.

“A huge thank you to everyone who supported me and donated. Your generosity means so much, and every penny raised is going to Herriot Hospice, a charity that provides incredible care and support to people living with terminal illness and their families when they need it most.”

• Meanwhile, a team from Redcar organised a family fun day which raised £950 for the Great North Air Ambulance.

Branch manager Louise Dixon said: “It was a fab day and I’m so proud of our success.

“Our customers and people in the town really got involved, we loved it.

“We are a coastal branch, and the air ambulance is often in attendance in the area alongside the coast guard.

“Emma from their fundraising team used to work for Hays Travel so we thought it would be great to help with a fundraising event as they are not NHS-funded and rely on donations and fundraisers.”

• Finally, the Preston Morrisons store raised £919 after they joined the six-mile St Catherine’s Hospice Moonlight and Memories Walk.

Branch manager Gail Holland said: “The atmosphere was fantastic with everyone walking for the same fabulous charity.

“A massive thank you to all our supporters – from instore donations, friends, family and our JustGiving page. We appreciate you all.”

The Preston Morrisons team have taken part in the charity walk for three years, raising almost £2,000 for the hospice in total.

• Elsewhere, apprentice Grace Keeley (17), from Hays’ Runcorn branch, has made it through to the second round of the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards.

She joined Hays Travel’s apprenticeship scheme from school in July 2025 and is already one of the top sellers in her store.