Hays Travel owner Dame Irene Hays has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to travel in agent awards presented by Celebrity Cruises.
Eight awards were handed out at the event in London on January 12, attended by 70 travel partners.
The prizes were given in recognition of how the efforts of top agents have directly impacted the success of the business over the past 12 months.
The other winners in the line’s travel agent appreciation awards were Cruise.co.uk, Hays Travel, Love It Book It, Midcounties Co-operative, Stewart Travel, The Cruise Village and Travel Counsellors.
The awards marked the final time EMEA vice president and managing director Jo Rzymowska presided over the annual event before stepping down from her role in June.
She said: “2022 was an incredible year for Celebrity Cruises with the launch of the industry-leading Celebrity Beyond in the UK, and the news that a stunning Edge-Series ship, Celebrity Apex, will be home-porting in Southampton from 2024.
“These achievements are testament to the brand’s confidence in the UK market, owing to the incredible support of our travel partners. We’re also particularly encouraged by the strong start we are seeing to Wave already, and remain positive for a great year ahead in 2023.”
She added: “This year’s awards are also particularly poignant for me as I think beyond just the last 12 months and back as far as when I first stepped into my role for the dedicated Celebrity Cruises business back in 2014.
“As I prepare to hand over the mantle in June, I’d like to add a note of personal gratitude to all of the travel partners and industry friends who have been vital to the success of our business during my time at its helm.”