Travel Stop boss Bridget Keevil tweeted on Saturday (10 October) that desk and office space was available to those who needed it for “no contract, no commitment, no charge”.

Keevil, who runs agencies in Claydon, Hadleigh, Elmswell and Buntingford, told TTG she had woken up that morning and “just spontaneously” put the call out, wanting to help those working in travel and other industries.

She explained how her business had gone from 20 staff to “about 12” this year due to the financial pressures of Covid – with as many as six spare workspaces in each of her larger branches.

https://twitter.com/travelstopuk/status/1314858277491159040

“The ripple effects of what is happening are hurting everyone – it’s just awful. We’ve had desks empty for the last six months and just want them to be put to good use – it’s a total waste at the moment,” said Keevil.

“I will have been in business 30 years next year and never until now have I had to take bank loans out. Never have I had to make staff redundant and never have I turned over less than I did the year before.

“Usually with a crisis there’s an end point and something you can look ahead to but with Covid there isn’t and always just seems to be a new kick in the teeth.

"We’re offering the space for anyone who needs it. Maybe they’ve had to give up their own shop or office because of the cost and they need somewhere professional to meet clients. We’ve also got private offices – so it’s here for them to use."

Those interested should call Keevil on 01473 832111.