The CEO of Manchester Airport has spoken of the devastating impact of the Thomas Cook collapse after thousands lost their jobs.
'Colleagues, friends and, in some cases, our family' were among those left out of work, airport boss Andrew Cowan said.
A 'huge operation' kicked into action following the shock news, and staff did 'whatever they needed to do', he added.
'Dedicated' colleagues worked through the night to get stranded passengers home.
"But, of course, these operational challenges are made so much harder by the knowledge that the colleagues, friends and family members we worked with on a daily basis had found themselves out of work.
"If the past few days have been challenging for us, we can only imagine what is must be like for the 3,000 Thomas Cook employees in Greater Manchester who were told they were losing their jobs, the majority of whom were based at Manchester Airport," he said.
Former employees are being invited to a jobs fair at the airport next Thursday (October 3).
Around 1,000 vacancies will be on offer from the likes of the airport, TUI, Jet2.com, Whitbread, RAC and the NHS.
As well as getting the opportunity to speak to potential employers, experts will be on hand to offer advice about CV writing and interview skills.
There will also be advice on how to claim redundancy payments.
"I know first hand how many talented, committed and experienced people there were working for Thomas Cook and know they will be valuable additions to any company.
"We are hosting this event next week as part of a Greater Manchester Task Force established in the aftermath of Thomas Cook’s failure", Mr Cowan said.
More than 100 repatriation flights have arrived at Manchester over the last few days, including many bound for other airports.
Volunteers have been deployed at the train station, to give out free refreshments for those diverted to Manchester.
"Once again, I want to thank everyone who has pulled together and to reiterate that the thoughts of everyone on the Airport campus are with those impacted by this situation," Mr Cowan said.
The jobs fair will be held between 10am and 6pm at the Runway Visitor Park.
Former Thomas Cook employees must register their attendance at www.gmthomascook.com
Free transport is being provided by Manchester Airport and TfGM.
