Independent travel agency Travel Stop has been ranked among the top 50 in the UK and Ireland by the industry’s leading specialist publication.

The Travel Stop branch in Hadleigh features in the TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies listing, compiled by the Travel Trade Gazette (TTG) and based on ratings by tour operators and other suppliers, including airlines and car hire operators, followed by site visits for those shortlisted.

More than 950 travel agencies and branches put themselves forward for consideration for this year’s list, produced in association with holiday group Kuoni, from which a shortlist of 90 were selected, across 18 different categories.

Travel Stop in Hadleigh was among those to make the final 50 and also picked up the Top Travel Agency East of England award at the TTG Top 50 event, held earlier this week in Birmingham.

Bridget Keevil, proprietor of Travel Stop, which also has branches in Claydon and Elmswell, said: “I was thrilled to receive the award for Top Travel Agency East of England at Monday night’s event and although, of course, I had hoped we would win, I was very aware that we were up against some very good competition.

“I feel that the Hadleigh shop, in a superb high street position in the lovely market town, has a super atmosphere. It is staffed by a team with a wealth of knowledge.

“The five team members have accrued a total of 168 years of experience between them, and I find this an exceptional statement to be able to make. In addition to this, they share a desire in wanting to provide an exceptional level of service which is what has made the Hadleigh office the success it is.”

She added: “This latest trophy will take pride of place next to the TTG Travel Awards Travel Seller of the Year trophy which was won by Anita Crowson in 2013. These are two very special awards which Travel Stop is very proud to have received.”

TTG group editor Pippa Jacks said: “Now in its second year, our Top 50 Travel Agencies initiative has seen us scour the UK and Ireland to uncover its most dedicated and dynamic travel agency businesses.

“It’s been truly inspiring to hear how these agencies go above and beyond on a daily basis, to deliver extraordinary service and incredible value to their customers, and to support their local communities.

“Our winners demonstrate that travel retailing in 2016 is a vibrant and successful business sector, and that – particularly on the high street – agents continue to prove their worth by delivering phenomenal customer service.”