A Pembrokeshire travel agency has been named as one of the best in the UK and Ireland for the second year running, beating competition from hundreds of others.

Haverfordwest-based Ocky White Travel was among more than 900 travel agencies and branches nominated for the Travel Trade Gazette’s (TTG) Top 50 Travel Agencies 2018.

The business, among a shortlist of 95 finalists nationwide, was named as one of the top three stores in Wales.

The candidates had been rated by tour operators and other suppliers, and then assessed by travel trade journalists. Agencies were rated according to their business performance, customer service and innovation.

Mark White, managing director of Ocky White Travel, was delighted to win an award for the second consecutive year.

The business, which is based at Bridge Street, had been visited and assessed by a TTG journalist during the shortlisting process.

“Once again, I am so proud of our dedicated and dynamic team Anna Reed, Claire Davies, Helen Noden, Jess Day and Naomi Lidgate - and what they have achieved. We are all thrilled to be recognised on a national level,’’ said Mr. White.

“None of this would be possible without the fantastic support we receive from our many loyal customers and friends. To them I say thank you!’’

Director Anna Reed and husband Roger were at the Vox Centre at Resorts World Birmingham to receive the award. The competition is run in association with Kuoni.

TTG group editor Pippa Jacks said the winning agencies had demonstrated that travel retailing in 2018 was a “vibrant and successful’’ business sector.

“Agents continue to prove their worth by delivering phenomenal customer service,’’ she said.

“It’s been truly inspiring to hear how these agencies go above and beyond on a daily basis, to deliver extraordinary service and incredible value to their customers, and to support their local communities.”

The shortlisting stage was undertaken by a panel of 60 travel suppliers including airlines, tour operators and car hire providers.