Franklin stepped away from her trade-facing role at Inghams and Santa's Lapland in January after seven years with the Hotelplan UK brands. At the time, she said she wanted to take some time to focus on herself and her family.

Now after a six-month break, she has decided to join Ramsbottom-based Designer Travel as a Professional Travel Expert.

She said: "I am celebrating 40 years in travel this month, it’s a big anniversary and signalled a time for real and positive change and to do something for me.

"My travel journey has taken me from Exchange Travel back in the 80s, through various retails roles into tour operating where I spent my recent years working at Inghams.

"I felt it was time to return to my roots, doing what I enjoy most, building relationships with my customers and helping them to plan their future adventures."

Franklin confirmed she had done lots of research before deciding her next move. "Designer Travel really is the perfect fit for me," she said. "As a business, it aligns to my core values and offers the support I need.

"I have always been passionate about my career, and the team here certainly share the same passion for all things travel.

"The way the team share their knowledge has really inspired me and I look forward to my new and exciting chapter."

Designer Travel Director Karen Pocock said: "We're so delighted to welcome Julie onboard. She will be a great asset to the business and will fit in perfectly.

"Julie brings with her a wealth of travel knowledge, and I know that the rest of the team will welcome her with open arms." 

• Find out more about Designer Travel in the TTG Homeworking Hub, packed with advice for existing and would-be homeworkers, and a Matchmaker tool to help you find the right homeworking company for you.