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Energetic, a legend and a true gentleman
Not many could be described as ‘energetic’, a ‘legend’ as well as a ‘true gentlemen’.
But industry stalwart Colin Heal, who died at the weekend, see other story, has touched many across the industry and was known for his fairness and integrity.
Heal, in his 80s although no one liked to ask, originally qualified as an industrial chemist, but despite various promotions, left the oil industry to join the Royal Air Force.
He moved up ranks to Group Captain and Royal Air Force Station Commander, and subsequently became a Director at the Ministry of Defence.
Colin was awarded the MBE, the OBE and the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal.
In 1989 Heal became a partner in Far Horizons Travel in Gillingham, Dorset and in 1992 became chairman and managing director of ARTAC which, subsequently, became Worldchoice UK.
In the late 90s Colin led Worldchoice into a strategic alliance with the Carlson Leisure Group and in 2005 he was instrumental in the formation of the Triton Travel Group, to which he was appointed Chairman.
More recently he led the company in the merger with the Travel Trust Association.
Heal stepped down as Worldchoice chairman in 2011 after 19 years and was made a Lifetime President. He was given a £2,500 gift from his colleagues which he donated to ABTA Lifeline.
During his time in the travel industry he was an ABTA board member, served as vice chairman and continued to be a Trustee of the ABTA Lifeline Fund, serving for 16 years.
He had also been chairman of the National Training Organisation for Travel Tourism and Events.
Heal has two daughters, five grandchildren and one great grandchild born earlier this year whom he enjoyed relaying stories about.
A Travel Network Group spokeswoman said: "He will be remembered for so much but especially the way that he touched people – all members of Worldchoice."
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