Local travel expert gives back to the Clarke Foley Community Hub
A local travel specialist who has called Ilkley home for 47 years is giving back to the community by becoming a Gold Sponsor of The Clarke Foley Community Hub.
John Redding, an independent travel expert with Designer Travel, has supported the work of The Clarke Foley Community Hub in Ilkley for many years and is delighted to now be able to contribute directly to the organisation's future.
Having lived in the area since 1979, John has seen first-hand the positive impact the Hub has on local residents through its wide range of activities, services and opportunities that bring people together. From combating loneliness and encouraging wellbeing to providing opportunities for learning, socialising and personal development, the Hub plays an important role at the heart of the local community.
Now, thanks to the continued support of his clients and the growth of his travel business, John is in a position to support the organisation's work as a Gold Sponsor.
"I've always appreciated everything The Clarke Foley Community Hub does for the people of Ilkley," said John. "It's a wonderful community asset that provides friendship, support and opportunities for people of all ages. Having lived here for 47 years, I've seen just how valuable it is, so I'm absolutely delighted to be in a position to give something back."
John's sponsorship follows the recent achievement of Emerald status with Designer Travel, an important milestone in the growth of his business and one made possible by the loyalty and support of his clients.
Specialising in cruises, tailor-made holidays, escorted tours and luxury travel, John offers a highly personal approach to holiday planning, taking the time to understand each client's interests, aspirations and budget before creating recommendations designed specifically for them.
"Every traveller is different," John explained. "Some people know exactly what they want, while others simply know how they want to feel when they get there. My role is to listen, understand what's important to them and then use my experience and industry knowledge to create the right holiday."
Whether clients are planning a once-in-a-lifetime cruise, an African safari, a luxury beach escape or a bespoke touring itinerary, John works closely with them throughout the process, offering advice, guidance and support from the initial enquiry through to their return home.
His flexible approach means clients can discuss their plans in the way that suits them best, whether that's by phone, email, video call, over a coffee or in the comfort of their own home. Many clients value having a dedicated travel expert who takes the time to understand their individual requirements and remains their single point of contact throughout the journey.
"Travel planning should be exciting, not stressful," said John. "Building relationships with clients allows me to understand what they really want from a holiday and tailor recommendations accordingly. That's often where the real value of expert travel advice comes in."
John's clients also benefit from the backing of Designer Travel, one of the UK's leading independent travel companies. Founded in 2007, Designer Travel has grown into a nationwide network of travel experts with a reputation for exceptional service, expert advice and tailor-made holiday planning. The company has received numerous industry awards and is trusted by thousands of travellers across the UK.
For John, however, success has always been about more than travel: "My business has grown through recommendations, repeat clients and the support of local people. The trust clients place in me when planning some of the most important trips of their lives is something I never take for granted. Being able to support The Clarke Foley Community Hub is my way of saying thank you to a community that has supported me for so many years."
As The Clarke Foley Community Hub continues its work supporting residents from across Ilkley and the surrounding area, John hopes his sponsorship will help raise awareness of the organisation and encourage others to support the local charities and businesses that help the community thrive.
"I've spent virtually my entire life in Ilkley," he said. "It's a fantastic place to live because of organisations like The Clarke Foley Community Hub and the people who work so hard behind the scenes to make a difference. I'm proud to be able to play a small part in supporting that work."
For more information about John Redding and Designer Travel, or to discuss your next holiday, please get in touch directly: johnredding@designertravel.co.uk
For information on sponsorship opportunities at the Clarke Foley Community Hub, contact: marketing@clarkefoley.org.uk
