Latin Routes seeks nominations for Christmas gift appeal for kids

"I would like to thank every single person who has kindly donated to the appeal," said Latin Routes director Jess Dennison. "It really does say a lot about what an incredibly kind and supportive industry we work in.

"It is the industry’s way of showing you our support and that the industry is behind you, and hopefully this small gesture will help to ease some of the stress and pressure the festive season can create."

The appeal initially set out to raise £500, with supporters invited to purchase an item from an Amazon gift list or make a monetary donation.

"We have been blown away by the response," said Dennison. "Because the appeal is travel industry-specific, by supporting it, we can make a small tangible difference to our peers, friends and colleagues, whether they work for an airline, tour operator, travel agency or airport – we are all in this together."

From Monday 7 December, Dennison said the "Latin Routes elves" would be turning the operator’s office into Santa’s grotto, with team members all doing their bit to wrap all the gifts in time for Christmas delivery.

The closing date for nominations, and donations, is Wednesday 9 December.

"Christmas is all about children, and all we want is to put a few smiles on their faces this Christmas, as well as relieve a bit of the financial pressure the festive season can bring," said Dennison.

"But we now need the industry’s support to nominate children from impacted families. Our hope is that we can help as many families as possible with all the generous donations we have received.

"Please remember nominations are confidential and no information will be shared so if you want to show someone the industry cares, please nominate them now here."