AN EXPERT in the travel industry is flying high after receiving a cash boost from Test Valley Borough Council.

Ben Franklin has launched his own agency as part of the franchise Not Just Travel in Portland House, Andover.

Using his expertise from 12 years in the sector as cabin staff, Ben aims to match his customers with their trip of a lifetime, with a particular niche for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) market.

After finishing his career as cabin staff, Ben worked in direct sales. The entrepreneur then travelled back to familiar ground and started his travel agency with the security and support of a franchise model for mentoring and marketing.

Ben said: “I am keen to share my knowledge after years of travelling as a member of cabin crew, to create experiences to remember for a lifetime. The grant from Test Valley Borough Council has enabled my business to really take off.”

Presenting the £750 cheque Harroway ward member Councillor Brian Page said: “Encouraging a competitive local economy is a key priority for Test Valley Borough Council.

“The Business Incentive Grant helps local entrepreneurs to contribute towards the cost of creating a small business, just when they need it most.”

The grants are available to anyone looking to set up their own business in Test Valley.