A KILMACOLM travel agency is celebrating a whirlwind opening year after receiving an industry award.

Staff from Travel Actually were presented with the prestigious accolade at the annual Carrier Preferred Agent Awards in Manchester.

The travel agent is a managed service travel partner of Barrhead Travel.

The Outstanding Achievement Award was given as a reward for Travel Actually’s instant impact and success within the local travel market.

Arlene Donald, who has more than 40 years of travel experience, launched Travel Actually in April 2015. With the support of Barrhead Travel, Arlene decided to take over and rebrand the former Travel A La Carte business in the village. After speaking to Barrhead Travel chairman Bill Munro, she realised there was a demand from local, and now global, customers.

She said: “The success of Travel Actually has exceeded my expectations – and this accolade tops off a great first year for the business. It’s fantastic to be recognised for our hard work.

Arlene – who has lectured on travel and tourism – has an extensive knowledge of the travel industry.

This expertise has brought in customers from all over the UK – and as far afield as Australia and Spain.

The majority of bookings come through cruise and luxury but she has the platform to provide all types of holiday packages for her customers.

Arlene insists that the support of Barrhead Travel and its Brilliant Travel division is invaluable.

Linda Pyle, Barrhead Travel’s managed service travel partner and homeworking director, said: “Arlene’s award is very much deserved and we are pleased that her store is going from strength-to-strength.

“The Brilliant Travel division continues to grow, and our model is proving popular among members who enjoy having the flexibility to manage their own travel agencies, safe in the knowledge that Barrhead Travel is on hand to provide support and guidance.”