Thom has joined Inspire as an independent travel associate and will run her business alongside her full-time role at the trade-only car hire and motorhome specialist.

She was inspired to join the homeworking firm after attending its Work Rest Play conference in Majorca last year. She will look to support her clients during evenings and at weekends.

Thom said she felt her extensive industry knowledge and expertise could be put to use helping friends and family plan their trips.

She will also use her new venture to strengthen the relationship between Inspire and Flexible Autos, acting as a point of expertise for other Inspire agents to help support and grow sales between the two businesses.

"From the moment I attended the conference, I felt included, loved and part of the Inspire family," said Thom. "When I decided to take the leap, it was Inspire that sprang to mind straight away, purely because of the way they make their agents feel."

Lisa Henning, Inspire Group Chief Executive, said Thom's decision to join Inspire was testament to the community the business has created. "We are passionate about supporting the growth of their travel businesses. We welcome Melanie with open arms and wish her every success with her new venture."