A TOURISM graduate from South Cheshire College has got her career on the right tracks after being appointed travel centre manager for a luxury train company.

Beth Cooper, 25, is taking over the hot seat at Nantwich-based Northern Belle this month as train owner David Pitts strengthens his head office team with bookings booming as restrictions ease.

Beth, who joined the company three years ago, said: "It's a dream job - one of the perks is I get to travel on trips around the country on a beautiful train meeting our passengers.

"Many of them are celebrating a special occasion like a birthday, retirement or a wedding anniversary and it's lovely chatting to them.

"Lots are loyal guests who keep returning to take trips on the Northern Belle so it's important we build a good rapport to make them feel valued.

"The last 18 months have been very challenging for us because of Covid, but bookings have soared since the lockdown ended."

Northern Belle is planning several trips from Cheshire , including a couple of steam-hauled journeys over the Settle-Carlisle line.

Yorkshire businessman Mr Pitts, who bought the Northern Belle's distinctive 1930s-style Pullman carriages from the iconic Orient Express group, said: "Beth is dedicated to the company and like many other members of our team often diligently works very long hours to keep our trains running.

"I believe Beth is well placed to help us take the business forward and we will be looking to further strengthen our team as things return to normal after the Covid pandemic."