Helen is the founder of Wellbeing Travel and has been the Wales region chair on ABTA’s Council of Regions since 2012.

She said: ''After 45 years in travel, I’m incredibly proud to be joining the ABTA Board. I’m passionate about our industry and look forward to bringing my experience and an independent travel business perspective to help support ABTA and its members.”

Helen was selected by the other ABTA regional chairs on the Council of Regions to be put forward for appointment. She replaces Richard Slater who is stepping down at the end of his three-year term.

Richard said: “As my term on the Board comes to an end, I remain extremely proud of my long association with ABTA and the contribution I’ve been able to make.

“I’ve particularly valued the opportunity to represent smaller ABTA members and independent travel retailers. I’ve always believed strongly in ensuring their views are heard at Board level and have never been afraid to ask challenging questions or raise issues that matter to independent businesses.”

Ailsa Pollard, ABTA Chair, said: “Helen is a longstanding ABTA member and I’m delighted to welcome her to the Board. Her perspectives and experience mean she is well-placed to contribute from the off, adding to an already strong and effective Board acting in the interests of ABTA members.

“My thanks go to Richard Slater who has made a valuable contribution to the Board discussions and who I know will continue to be a strong ABTA advocate, including through his media work, where he regularly reinforces to consumers the importance and reassurance of booking with an ABTA member.”