A CROSS Hills travel agency has scooped a prestigious award at a ceremony in Dubai.

Olive Lounge Travel was awarded Best Newcomer at The Global Travel Group 2016 awards.

Founded by Gillian Polyhos and Joanne Edwards in 2015, following successful careers for both in leading multiple and independent agencies, Olive Lounge has grown significantly in the last nine months, and now employs two additional staff to cope with demand from existing and new clients.

Initially operating as a home based venture, Gillian and Joanne soon recognised the need for a retail offering and opened their new agency on Main Street in April.

“We wanted to create an environment which engages people when they walk in,” said Gillian. “Searching and booking holidays is an exciting process, and something we genuinely enjoy doing, so we designed the space to have a homely feel when clients visit.”

Joanne said: “We’ve been delighted with the success of opening our agency in Cross Hills, with both our existing and new clients wanting a personal level of service you simply can’t get from the internet sites or a call centre.

“Holidays represent the largest single annual outlay for most families, and having the peace of mind to know that someone is there for you before, during and after your trip is proving a real strength.”