SUFFOLK-based specialist tour operator Arena Travel has received a significant cash injection from a consortium of investors to help it expand its range of niche specialist holidays and events.

The investors are also supporting the Martlesham-based firm with expertise and contacts within the industry.

Ian Brooks, who set up Med Hotels in 2002, later selling the company to Lastminute.com, becomes a non-executive director at Arena and Declan Treanor, who brings experience from the financial services sector, had been appointed chairman.

Ali Naqvi, managing director at Arena, said: “Since taking over the business in 2009, we have re-focused the business as a dedicated special interest tour operator with a number of distinct niches, all aimed at the 50-plus market where there is an opportunity to build products with higher margins and strong repeat bookings.

“We want to develop our range much further to cater for a wider range of hobbies and interests. Thanks to this injection of both capital and skills we are now well-placed to explore possible future acquisitions to undergo a much more rapid rate of growth.”

Mr Brooks said: “There is a real opportunity to develop the special interest tour market, especially tours which are marketed at the over 50s whom continue to enjoy a good disposable income and have time to pursue their passions.”