Dutton will take up the newly-created role of national key account manager at Shearings on November 6 after 17 years with the short break specialist.

Her role will involve strengthening Shearings’ ties with agents and she will work alongside national sales manager Michael Bowers.

Dutton has amassed more than 28 years’ experience in the travel industry, including her time with Super Break which she first joined as a sales executive and later key account manager.

Atkins, managing director at Shearings Holidays, said: “We are looking to strengthen our sales team going forward and Claire’s appointment is the first step of this process.

She brings with her an in-depth understanding and knowledge of the UK travel trade and the domestic market, which I know will be of great benefit to Shearings Holidays.

We want to grow our retail trade volumes and bringing Claire into the business is the

start of this acceleration.”

“This is an exciting time for Shearings Holidays with new products, new destinations and we are investing in the brand to grow the business and move it on to the next stage of its development.”