Uncertain future for Thomas Cook staff

Thomas Cook workers across Lancashire are facing an uncertain future after the tour giant ceased trading following the failure of its bid to secure a rescue package.

With a massive operation now underway to bring home thousands of tourists stranded as a result of the collapse, more than 9,000 of its staff in the UK are now unemployed.

They include workers in its branches across the county, including Preston, Blackburn, Blackpool, Burnley, Chorley, Lancaster, Leyland and Lytham St Annes. They are among around 600 high street stores the business operated.

Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom has requested a “fast-track” inquiry into the circumstances leading to the collapse of the iconic 178-year-old travel company.