A new name – the Abtarians Society – has replaced the former identity Old Abtarians, which has been in place since the society first came together in 2000.

Chairman Colin Brain said: “I am very pleased that we can now welcome a wider range of people into our society, who might not have been council, committee and secretariat members, but who have worked closely with Abta over the years.

"These might include former national tourist office employees who were members of the Abta / Antor Committee, or airline or other travel industry leaders who have had Abta’s interests at heart. We welcome applications from anyone who feels they have played their part.

“Before approving these changes at our EGM, we held detailed discussions with Abta to ensure that our new organisation meets its aims and I would like to thank chief executive Mark Tanzer for his help and support. We are primarily a social organisation, bringing together old friends and like-minded people who may be retired or may still be working.”

The Abtarians Society currently has 54 members, including former presidents John Harding and Mike Grindrod.

Four main events are held each year, including a spring mini-break in the UK; the AGM in London, on September 20; an overseas trip, also in autumn; and a Christmas lunch, in Oxford on December 13.

Members also receive travel discounts through various organisations.

Applications to join the Abtarians Society should be made to membership secretary Richard English by emailing retraining@pncl.co.uk