A TRAVEL consultant from Wotton under Edge has been shortlisted for a national award.

Rachel Ball, who is Wotton Travel’s youngest employee has been shortlisted for the Travel Trade Gazette’s Young Travel Agent of the Year accolade.

The final will be held at the Lyceum Theatre in London, UK on September 17, with an after party at the Savoy Hotel.

Rachel first came to Wotton Travel in May 2013 for two week’s work experience, as part of her travel and tourism BTEC at Gloucester College. She then went on to gain hotel reservations experience to provide a foundation for her career.

She then returned to Wotton Travel in 2015 as a trainee consultant, becoming a junior consultant two years later.

In her time at the firm, which is owned by Renishaw, Rachel has visited Dubai, Cape Verde and America and completed numerous courses to further her knowledge and understanding.

She has also been involved in launching an offers board for employees at Renishaw, attended careers evenings at schools in the area, attended supplier evenings and helped set up a service for special occasions.

“When I came to Wotton Travel for work experience, I instantly realised it was the place for me,” said Rachel.

“It’s great to be recognised for doing something I love ─ I couldn’t ask for a better job in a better company.”

Wendy Walker, director at Wotton Travel said: “Rachel’s love of the industry shines through everything she does."

“We realised early on that she has the drive, passion and interest to be successful as a travel agent.

"As soon as we had a vacancy, we got in touch. She even turned down an offer from a major travel provider to work here.

"It is a privilege to work with Rachel, as she is a wonderful colleague and a great ambassador for the industry.

“This is the first time we have entered the TTG Awards and it is great to be recognised on the shortlist,” said Wendy.

“Wotton Travel is a small business in comparison to many other entrants, but our passionate and experienced team works hard to make each holiday a perfect fit for every customer.”

Engineering company Renishaw founded Wotton Travel in 1986 to focus on business travel for Renishaw.

The agency now provides high quality travel across the globe to business and leisure customers.

The TTG Travel Awards celebrate the best in the UK travel industry.