Hays Travel Foundation fundraiser in memory of John Hays tops £22,000

The much-loved businessman died aged 71 after collapsing at the company’s head offices in Sunderland while ‘doing the job he loved’ on Friday, November 13.

John and wife Irene built the business up from a single shop in Seaham to the UK's largest independent travel agent.

The day after John’s tragic death, a Go Fund Me page was set up for those wishing to donate to the Hays Travel Foundation which has been deemed as one of John’s proudest achievements.

The foundation was set up to help young people achieve and be the best that they can be in their health, sport, the arts and education.

So far more than £22,790 has been donated to the foundation as Sunderland, the North East and the international travel industry grieves the tragic loss.

Donations poured in from more than 1,800 people, including travel companies from around the world, with many leaving messages hailing John as a ‘true inspiration.’

A post on the Go Fund Me page says: “We have been overwhelmed by the messages and condolences received for John Hays.

"There has been a number of requests to send flowers or send a donation to a charity.

"If anyone would like to make a donation in his memory, Irene would be grateful for a £5 donation (no more) to be made to the Hays Travel Foundation which was one of John’s proudest achievements."

To donate click here www.gofundme.com/f/john-hays

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