Sunderland landmarks to be lit in Hays Travel colours
Sunderland landmarks will be lit up in the orange and blue colours of Hays Travel in tribute to founder John Hays.
The Northern Spire bridge, Fulwell Mill, Seaburn Lighthouse, Hylton Castle, Beacon of Light and Keel Square outside the company’s HQ are all being lit to mark his death, 10 days ago, the Sunderland Echo reports.
Lights will go on at dusk on Tuesday 24 and Wednesday 25 November until dawn the following morning. The funeral for Mr Hays is due to take place on Wednesday.
Sunderland City Council leader Councillor Graeme Miller said: "It was a shock to so many people to hear of John’s death. It’s fitting that we look to a visible tribute and with a book of condolences there is the opportunity to mark his passing in words.
"John was always deeply loyal and committed to Sunderland and the North East region and we thank him for that. I know many other people feel the same, and he was loved and admired by many people in the city and beyond."
A Go Fund Me campaign has now raised over £22,000 for the Hays Travel Foundation.
An online book of condolence has been opened for John, who died on 13 November.
Lisa
Lisa joined Travel Weekly nearly 25 years ago as technology reporter and then sailed around the world for a couple of years as cruise correspondent, before becoming deputy editor. Now freelance, Lisa writes for various print and web publications, edits Corporate Traveller’s client magazine, Gateway, and works on the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife series of photography books, which raise awareness of nature’s most at-risk species and helps to fund their protection.
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