Slater, who is also chair of the Abta North West region, was selected by the other Abta regional chairs to be put forward for appointment.

This appointment brings additional retail travel agency experience to the board, alongside Daniele Broccoli who currently holds the board position elected by members with retail turnover of less than £20 million.

Slater’s appointment will take effect from the Abta AGM on 21 September and will be for an initial term of two years.

Alistair Rowland, Abta chair, said: "During the pandemic, Richard was a regular presence on both local and national TV and radio making the case for high street retailers as well as providing informed and articulate comment for the national media.

"Richard’s experience and expertise will be invaluable for his fellow Board members, and I am delighted to welcome him to the team."

Slater added: "I look forward to working with the other directors and hope that my experience of and commitment to the high street travel agency market helps in the development of the future strategy of our association."

Responding to the announcement, Travel Agents Reform Group Engaged Together (Target) co-founder Graeme Brett said: "This is certainly a huge step in the right direction. It is not exactly what we asked for but it is a huge victory for travel agents."