A Cardigan businessman is among thousands of holidaymakers left stranded abroad following the collapse of travel agents Thomas Cook in the early hours of Monday.

Steve Greenhalgh, who runs the town’s Cellar Bar and is holidaying in Cyprus with his wife, April, told the Cambrian News that the inconveniences he was experiencing did not compare to the plight of 9,000 UK workers who faced losing their jobs.

“Our local lass Lesley Parkin has worked in the Cardigan branch for over 25 years and served us brilliantly,” he added.

“The ATOL and embassy staff have been amazing in organising accommodation and making sure everyone is okay.

“They sorted heart medication as one young woman had run out of prescription drugs. There were hundreds of us stranded on two flights and they sorted transport and everything: hotels, food, and all manner of requirements all very quickly.

“I’m astounded at the fast organisation within this tragic set of events.”

Mr Greenhalgh and his wife, and their travel companions Marc and Shan Owen were due back in the early hours of yesterday but faced a 24-hour hold-up.

Meanwhile, Mrs Parkin, a long-time stalwart of Cardigan’s Thomas Cook office, has spoken of her devastation.

One of a team of five at the Priory Street branch, she said in a Facebook post: “Totally devastated - after 25 years working in Thomas Cook never thought this day would come.

“Thank you to everyone for your lovely messages and thank you to all my wonderful customers over the years and of course my work colleagues who are not just work colleagues but amazing people and my best friends.”

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