A long-standing British travel company has entered voluntary liquidation, resulting in the cancellation of all planned holidays. Gold Crest Holidays, based in Ilkley, West Yorkshire, ceased operations after more than three decades in business. The family-owned coach tour operator expressed deep regret over the decision to enter liquidation.
Company Background and Services
Gold Crest Holidays specialised in organising trips across the UK and Europe, including popular destinations such as Disneyland Paris and major sporting events. The company also operated under the names Advent, Advent Tours, and Overseas Dream Weddings. The firm cited financial pressures as the primary reason for its closure.
Impact on Customers
All future departures have been cancelled. The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) will oversee the refund process for affected customers. A statement on ABTA's website advised: 'We regret that all future packages have been cancelled. If you are holding tickets for certain events, these may still be valid, and you can contact the event organisers to check this. You will, however, have to make alternative travel and accommodation arrangements.'
Reasons for Closure
The company attributed its collapse to several factors: the severe impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, changes to key business arrangements that adversely affected operations, and a challenging trading environment driven by sharply escalating costs. In a notice on its website, Gold Crest Holidays stated: 'After more than 30 years of creating unforgettable holidays, we are deeply saddened to announce that Gold Crest Holidays has ceased trading with immediate effect and has taken steps to enter voluntary liquidation.'
Guidance for Affected Customers
Customers who booked through a travel agent are advised to contact their agent before following ABTA's guidance. Those who paid by credit card should download a credit card referral letter from ABTA and send it to their credit card issuer to seek a refund. The company thanked customers, travel agents, suppliers, and staff for their loyalty over the years, expressing genuine sorrow for the inconvenience caused.
