ALLOA’S Thomas Cook shop has been saved after a travel company took on the collapsed giant’s assets.

Jobs were at risk after Thomas Cook went bust last month, but the Alloa shop was back open this Monday, October 14, after Hays Travel acquired the entire retail portfolio of the company.

That includes 55 shops in Scotland, including the one on the High Street in town.

Hays is a Sunderland-based private company, jointly owned and managed by John Hays, managing director, and Irene Hays, chair.

As part of the acquisition, Hays hopes to take on as many of the 2,500 former Thomas Cook retail employees as possible in the coming weeks.

Irene Hays said: “Thomas Cook was a much-loved brand and a pillar of the UK and the global travel industry.

"We will build on the good things Thomas Cook had – not least its people – and that will put us in even better stead for the future."

MP Luke Graham welcomed the move and has written to the couple behind the company.

He said: “I was pleased to see that Hays Travel have moved to ensure that no jobs will be lost as a result of the fall of Thomas Cook and I have written to ensure that Alloa is not forgotten as the firm moves forward.

“In spite of its size, Clackmannanshire – and Alloa – has the people and ambition to add value to any business and Hays Travel would be a much welcome addition to the High Street.”

This is the first time Hays Travel has a presence in Scotland.

John Hays added: “I’m very proud of the fantastic team who have helped me build Hays Travel over almost 40 years and they have worked tirelessly over the last couple of weeks to bring this about.

"It is a game-changer for us, almost trebling the number of shops we have and doubling our workforce - and for the industry, which will get to keep some of its most talented people.”

For recruitment, visit haystravel.co.uk/careers or call 08002155995.