Corby-based Jon Berridge spoke about his journey from education to travel at Hays Travel’s recent conference in Turkey a few weeks before suffering “a sudden unexpected cardiac event” on 23 December.
Hays Travel said Berridge had been “full of energy and enthusiasm for his new career”, describing him as a "truly authentic and warm person".
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Jon’s husband and family at this very sad time," said a spokesperson for the business.
“Jon joined us through our New to Travel academy and quickly established both himself and his travel business within our Hays Travel family.
“He was warmly received at our overseas conference in November, where we all enjoyed hearing about his successful journey from education to travel – down do his incredibly positive ‘can do’ attitude and lots of hard work.”
The spokesperson added: “On behalf of everyone at Hays Travel, rest in peace Jon, you will be greatly missed.”
’Belly laughs’
Tributes have poured in from Berridge’s friends, family, customers and colleagues, including some of his fellow personal travel consultants.
County Durham-based Kirsty Newton hailed Berridge’s “bravery” for leaving his teaching career to “pursue a dream”. “He has absolutely smashed being a personal travel consultant,” she said, posting to Facebook.
“As another Hays personal travel consultant, Jon and I got to share our first conference together to Turkey. Jon made me belly laugh from start to finish.
"We had such a great time, from dancing the night away to trying to sneak into the airport lounge together. He gave me so much inspiration, not just from his speech, but from the rest of our time we spent together."
Another personal travel consultant wrote: “I am beyond shocked to hear this. I met ’teacher Jon’ in October and he was a lovely man. Sending love to all his family and friends.”
West Yorkshire-based personal travel consultant Kerry O’Connell added: “I met Jon only a few weeks ago at the conference. We all had an amazing time laughing about his random stories and hearing of his career change.
“He had such an impact on everyone he met over those few days in Turkey. Sending lots of love to all of his family and friends.”
EasyJet holidays trade distribution manager Gemma Hussey posted: “I, alongside my colleagues, were very fortunate to be blessed with Jon’s company on a trip to Kalamata, Greece, earlier this year.
"A kind soul who we will be forever be grateful to have met and hosted. Our thoughts are with you and all Jon’s loved ones.”
