St Andrews Travel's Retail Development Manager Janet Whittingham checked out the world's biggest cruise ship at the weekend as a finalist in a national newspaper competition to find the Face of Travel 2008. Janet who won her category is based at St Andrews Travel's Head Office in Bolton Town Centre and beat off the challenge of nearly 100 hopefuls to make the final of the competition run by industry newspaper Travel Trade Gazette.

Janet had to present to a panel of industry experts during the launch celebrations of Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas in Southampton on Saturday, after being voted into the final in an online poll.

Although she narrowly missed out on the top overall Award, she was praised by the judging panel for her professionalism and personality.

"It was an incredibly tough choice and all our 16 finalists were outstanding," said TTG editor Lucy Huxley.

"Janet was very unlucky to miss out in the final judging but showed what fantastic people we have working in the travel industry."

Janet added "Celebrating 25 years in the travel industry and 25 years of St Andrews Travel seemed a great opportunity to enter a competition like Face of Travel. Personally, the experience was so worthwhile, the entrants were all truly magnificent and we had such fun aboard the largest cruise ship afloat Independence of the Seas. We were treated like royalty by Royal Caribbean and TTG (Travel Trade Gazette). A memorable experience and I am very proud to win my category."

Carmel Alexander, General Manager of St Andrews Travel added "We are all very proud to have Janet in our team - she's a professional and that not only gives her a high profile in the Bolton Business community but she is also well respected throughout the UK travel industry."

Photo of Janet receiving her plaque from Lucy Huxley TTG and Michael English RCI

For more information or an interview, contact Janet Whittingham on 01204 524499
TTG editor Lucy Huxley is also available for additional comments on 0207 921 8008