OUR SHINING LIGHT
Landmarks will be lit up in memory of John Hays, champion of the high street
Sunderland landmarks are being lit up in tribute to popular businessman John Hays.
The 71-year-old founder of Hays Travel collapsed and died at the company's HQ in Sunderland on November 13, leading to an outpouring of tributes to the much-loved business leader.
A n o n l i n e b o o k o f c o ndolences has been opened for Mr Hays at https://www. s u n d e r l a n d . g o v. u k /a r t i - c l e /1 7 7 3 0/ B o o k- o f - c o n d o - lence
Now, city landmarks will be lit in blue and orange, the c o l ou r s o f H ays Tave l a n d its associated Hays Travel Foundation, which supports you n g p e o p l e to ac h i eve their potential, in tribute as the North East continues to mourn Mr Hays.
The Northern Spire b r i d ge, Fu l w e l l M i l l , S e abu r n L i g hth ou s e, Hyl to n Castle, Beacon of Light and K e e l S qu a r e o u t s i d e t h e company's HQ are all being lit to mark his passing.
Lights go on at dusk on Tu e s d ay a n d We d n e s d ay u nt i l d aw n t h e f o l l o w i n g morning. The funeral for Mr Hays is due to take place on
Wednesday.
Sunderland City Council leader Councillor Graeme Miller said: "It was a shock to so many people to hear of John's death. It's fitting that we look to a visible tribute and with a book of condolences there is the opportunity to mark his passing in words.
"John was always deeply loyal and committed to Sunderland and the North East region and we thank him for that. I know many other people feel the same, and he was loved and admired by many p e o p l e i n th e c i ty a n d b e - yond."
In 2016, the City Council awarded Mr Hays a Freedom of the City as recognition for
his services to the community. The honour is reserved for worthy citizens who have m ad e Su n d e rl a n d p roud with their achievements and endeavours.
A Go Fund Me page has been set up to allow anyone w i s h i n g t o p ay t r i b ut e t o John Hays to donate to the foundation which was one of his proudest achievements.
So far about £22,000 has b e e n do n ate d to th e H ays Trave l Fou n d at i o n wh i c h wa s s et up to h e l p you n g people achieve and be the best that they can be in their health, sport, the arts and education.
The foundation was described as one of Mr Hays’ proudest achievements.