Holiday of hope, fear and despair (From Warrington Guardian)

Holiday of hope, fear and despair

FAMILIES from across mid Cheshire spent Christmas and New Year in a state of concern after the earthquake and tsunami wave in south east Asia which has claimed more than 120,000 lives.

They have been anxious to hear news of their loved ones who could have been caught up in the horrific events.

There has also been a warning from the World Health Organisation that disease could double that number of deaths.

Huge sea surges were caused following the major undersea earthquake, with tourism destinations in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand and India hit by one of the worst disasters of the 21st century.

People from mid Cheshire with family and friends in the crisis zone spent days trying to establish their whereabouts, with varying levels of success.

A spokeswoman for Northwich-based travel agents Going Places said there had been concern for a party of travellers who had flown to Thailand, but all had now been accounted for.

She said: "We were very pleased to hear that they were all right."

The company has set up a crisis team and any Going Places customers can call the team on 01706 742180.

Charles Tattersall, spokesman for fellow Northwich company Co-Op Travelcare said he could not confirm the number of customers from the mid Cheshire area who were in the danger zone.

But he added: "Most of the operators we deal with have been flying people back or are in the process of doing so.

"Up until January 7 customers who have made a booking are being given the opportunity to change their holiday with many electing to go to Florida."