Hays Travel owner Irene Hays was formally made a Dame by the Princess Royal at Windsor Castle on Tuesday.

The title was bestowed on her in the New Year’s Honours in December last year for her work with young people throughout her career in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

“I am delighted and proud to accept this honour on behalf of all of the apprentices and all of the trainers everywhere, especially at Hays Travel, where we have always supported and developed young people to be the best they can be and to get the most they can out of life,” she said.

“Young people have been the lifeblood of Hays Travel for over 40 years – and they are vital to our future.”