Cassie shop reopens

THE travel agency where Cassie Hayes was killed has reopened.

Cassie died after an attack inside the Tui store, on Chapel Street, in Southport, on Saturday, January 13.

The store officially reopened after a full refurbishment on Monday, March 19.

For months after the incident, the shop remained shut with floral tributes left for the mum-of-one outside and signs blocking the window.

Speaking of reopening the branch, Tui bosses said that the decision was made after speaking with the store’s employees and Cassie’s family.

Cassie’s family wanted the 28-year-old’s amazing personality to remain a treasured memory within the Southport store.

A spokesperson for TUI UK & Ireland said: “We can confirm that after extensive consideration and consultation with the local team we are following their wishes and will be reopening our Southport store.”

Director of Distribution & Cruise for TUI UK & Ireland Helen Caron added: “The events at the Southport store shocked us all and we’ve continued to offer support to everyone affected.

“The decision to reopen the store following the tragic incident was made by the store team who have been very involved in the entire decision-making process, with all team members returning to work.

“We would like to extend our thanks to the travel industry and Southport community for their continued support.

“We have also shared our plans with Cassie’s family who said ‘Cassie has been thought of every step of the way and that means the world to us’.”

Her family added: “Cassie loved her job, her regular customers and her work colleagues who became great friends.

“The TUI store is where she laughed and smiled and we would like Cassie’s amazing personality to remain a treasured memory within the Southport store.”

Andrew Burke, 30, of Vincent Street, St Helens, accepts killing Cassie unlawfully.