The new recruit will report to head of trade sales Richard Forde and the move follows Newmarket’s brand “refresh” earlier this week.

Hodgkin, who returns to the travel industry after a hiatus of more than two years, has previously worked in regional sales manager and trade sales executive roles at Saga Holidays, as well as having spells at Thomas Cook and foreign exchange specialist Travelex.

Her appointment increases Newmarket’s on-the-road team to six, with Amy Burt also returning from maternity leave to cover Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Forde said: “Newmarket Holidays is delighted to welcome Claire back into the industry she loves after she had time away during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

“This is not only good news for us, but it’s good to see expertise returning to the industry. Her vast experience and industry knowledge are a wonderful addition to the already strong team and with Amy returning full time too, this puts us in an even better position to help service our agent partners.”