A Stockport-based travel agent has received a top industry award.

Jon Burton, of Fairclough Travel, picked up 'Cruise Agent of the Year' at the Travel Agent Awards in recognition of his work in helping people escape to beautiful locations around the globe.

Jon, a Woodley resident who runs Fairclough Travel entirely by himself, said it was 'absolutely amazing' to win.

Since he started the business around four years ago, he has been helping to send people from Romiley to the Rhine and Davenport to the Danube.

He explained that the most important thing is making sure people are on the cruise that's right for them.

"There really is a cruise for everybody", he said.

"Small intimate ones; large ships with fine dining; family cruises with waterparks - there's a huge range, so my job is making sure people are on the one they'd enjoy most."

The awards ceremony took place on 10 September at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool, featuring around 250 guests and some top names from the industry.

The winners were decided by a panel of 18 judges, comprising leading experts from the likes of Newmarket, Sandals, and Manchester Airport.

"Having been in business less than four years, it just feels fantastic to win", Jon added.

"But you don't win these things in isolation", he said. "I've got great customers and great suppliers."

Jon works as a franchisee for Explorer by Hays Travel.

As well as cruises, he helps holidaymakers with everything from city breaks and staycations through to safaris and adventure getaways.

Speaking of the importance of travel, he said: "It really broadens the mind.

"It's a chance to see new cultures, new places, and different ways of living.

"And I'd say it's important to do these things while you can. Don't wait until retirement or some other milestone - do it while you're capable!

"My aim is to help people collect memories, not things."

Find more information about Fairclough Travel on Jon's website here.