A SILSDEN travel agent has paid tribute to the public for its support following the coronavirus lockdown.

Destination, in Kirkgate, in common with several other travel agents across the district, has reopened after an easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

Shevaun Joy, who jointly owns Destination with business partner Lisa Manditsch, said it had been the most challenging period of the firm’s history.

But she said they were thrilled to have “ridden the storm and come through still smiling”.

“The travel industry is open once again,” said Shevaun.

“And with the proposal of air bridges (alleviating the need to quarantine) and Foreign & Commonwealth advice changing, we are seeing the summer 2020 travel season restarting.”

Travel agents, like other businesses, are having to operate very differently to ensure the safety of staff and customers.

“We are operating an appointment system to adhere to social distancing,” added Shevaun.

“It’s been really encouraging seeing customers old and new waving as they walk by and we’re so grateful for all the good wishes we have received.

“This is the biggest challenge we have faced in our 11 years of business.

“However, we are thrilled to have ridden the storm and come through still smiling and still very much in business.”