THE former Thomas Cook shops in St Helens town centre are set to reopen as Hays Travel premises.

Independent travel agent Hays Travel said earlier this month it will buy all 555 Thomas Cook stores in the country after the holiday company collapsed late last month.

Hays already has one shop in St Helens at Church square which launched in 2018.

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Thomas Cook had two branches in St Helens, one on Church Street and another on Bridge Street.

Both are part of the Church Shopping Centre. 

The former Bridge Street store will be reopened by the independent travel agent chain as of Saturday (October 19).

Meanwhile, the Church Street branch will be open from Monday (October 21).

Steve Brogan, centre manager of Church Square Shopping Centre, commented: “We are absolutely delighted that Hays Travel have occupied the Thomas Cook units.

"It was unfortunate to hear the news a few weeks back but it is so heartwarming to now know that the ex-employees will now be back on their feet.”

In a statement, staff at the Church Street shop said: "We are thrilled to announce that the ex Thomas Cook in Church Street, St Helens will be opening as Hays Travel on Monday, October 21, 2019.

"The excellent service and some familiar faces are also back with the added bonus, that now we are part of the Hays Family. We can sell a lot more tour operators including Jet2.

"We cannot wait to welcome our customers old and new. So when you’re passing, please pop in. We can discuss your next dream holiday or just say hi and have a catch up with you and your family."