31 Mar 2005

New look for an old favourite

A Beeston holiday shop and travel agency has been completely refurbished to keep its place as a favourite for people to look, book, and talk about holidays. The Skills Holiday shop on the town’s Chilwell Road has been given a welcoming new frontage and interior fittings thanks to £17,000 investment by the owners and a grant from Broxtowe Borough Council.

The Mayor of Broxtowe, Councillor Christine Wombwell, accepted the invitation to be the shop’s first official customer after performing the opening ceremony attended by Skills customers and staff.

The shop, which is set to become the style for all Skills shops in neighbouring towns and cities, will be the first in the company’s new corporate colour scheme. The sales area has been increased and there is improved access for disabled people.

Skills received a grant of £2,665 under Broxtowe Borough Council’s ‘keeping up appearances’ scheme for the enhancement of landmark retail and commercial properties. The assistance went towards a number of improvements including the installation of new ground floor windows on the main road frontage.

According to Joanne Bates, branch manager for the past five years, Beeston holidaymakers are particularly fond of tours to Lake Garda in Italy and the Emerald Isle and enjoy shorter trips to UK destinations including London and Edinburgh. “Our most adventurous travellers use our ABTA accreditation as a full travel agent to go round the world or cruise the Caribbean. Many others choose Sharm el Sheikh, Greece and Sorrento.