The Kilwinning-based business, opened by Shona Thorne in 2009, has taken over The Largs Travel Company in the neighbouring North Ayrshire town of Largs.

Thorne agreed to acquire the agency after discussions with its owner David Anton, who has decided to “take a back seat” from the running of the business after recent health issues.

He and current Largs Travel Company staff Audrey Quinn and Julie Boyd will join the Thorne Travel team and continue to look after their clients.

Thorne Travel’s Largs branch will move to new premises in the town this week.

Anton said: "We provide a very personal service to all our customers, and I just knew that if I could interest Shona Thorne in taking over the reins, it would mean that same family business feel would stay with our customers."

Anton, who founded his business in 2007, said he had “always admired the Thorne Travel approach to their customers” and was “so pleased when Shona agreed to take over”.

Thorne Travel was named the UK and Ireland’s Top Travel Agency in 2018 at TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies and Scotland’s Top Agency in 2018 and 2020.

Anton added Thorne’s reputation "within the travel industry and the local community" would be a “great addition” to the residents of Largs.

Shona Thorne said she would ensure "the family values both companies have strived to deliver to customers" would stay with the brand following the acquisition.

“We’re excited to have secured new premises and offer a new experience for a wide range of customers, both new and old,” added Thorne.