28-year-old Cassie, who worked for Tui for 12 years, was targeted in what is thought to have been a domestic related attack while working at the Chapel Street branch in Southport, where she had been assistant manager since 2015, at about 1.25pm on January 13.
Andrew Burke, 30, of Vincent Street, St Helens, has been charged with her murder and has been remanded in custody until February 19, when he is expected to enter a plea.
Cassie’s death has shocked the industry, with rival agency Hays Travel closing its Southport branch on Sunday “as a mark of respect”.
A fundraising campaign for Cassie’s family – including a young daughter – had reached more than £6,245 when TTG went to press.
The original target was £1,000.
Travel Gossip co-founder Bruce Martin was in Southport on Saturday with his family and saw the helicopters responding to the incident.
He launched the GoFundMe page after seeking the views of group members. Hundreds of fond memories and condolences have been posted both on Travel Gossip and on the fundraising page itself. The hashtags #agentsunited and #wearetravel are also circulating, with Trevor Davis of 3For coming up with the former.
Martin told TTG: “The response has been incredible and humbling. People are so kind. We can’t reverse what happened, but I hope we will be able to make a little positive difference to those affected.”
Nick Longman, Tui’s UK and Ireland managing director, said: “The dreadful events surrounding the incident in our Southport store this weekend have shocked us all and we send our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Cassie.
“Cassie was well-liked and known for her sense of fun and passion for the business.”
Michael Richards, business development manager at DoSomethingDifferent.com, was Cassie’s store manager in 2013, and had visited her and the rest of the Chapel Street team the previous week and “reminisced on old times”.
He told TTG: “Cassie was such a character and a huge part of the team. Everybody wanted to go in when she was on shift. Cassie really motivated them – she always had a positive attitude.”
Longman continued: “Saturday was very traumatic for the Southport store team and our customers present. We’ve been supporting the team and have arranged counselling support for them this week, and will continue to provide support for as long as needed.
“At an appropriate time, if they wish to do so, I will meet with Cassie’s partner and Cassie’s family to give our condolences in person.
“I have been overwhelmed by the support and care expressed by many throughout the travel industry. It’s at times like this you realise what a close community we are.”
- To donate to Travel Gossip’s fundraising campaign, visit gofundme.com/cassie-hayes
