Sunshine trips are reward for workers

Pudsey-based sports events agency The Events Office said firms across the district are making use of new flights to the sun from Leeds Bradford International Airport.

And companies are rewarding clients by taking them to corporate sporting events and encouraging staff to work harder.

The Events Office managing director Darren Boston said he has expanded his portfolio of events now Jet 2 is flying to Barcelona and Malaga.

"We've been organising golf and football events in Spain for six years, but with Jet2 now offering direct daily flights to Malaga and Barcelona, the interest for corporate events from Yorkshire companies is much higher.

"As a result, our level of professional services has increased to meet this demand.''

Mr Boston said the sports hospitality industry has grown year on year, but with prices up to £500 per person for a day at Twickenham or Wimbledon, many clients were looking to the continent - despite tough challenges in the economy.

"The industry is not going long haul like they used to but the continent offers a great deal.

"We can now arrange three- day trips to the Costa del Sol mixing business with pleasure on Europe's best golf courses or an unforgettable experience at a Champions' League match in Barcelona for the same price or less,'' Mr Boston said.

Even smaller companies were tempted to reward clients with 'treats', he said.

"When a company spends £1 million it's worth spending a little bit on that client to say thank you.''

Mr Boston lived and worked in Spain for five years, and has developed Golf Talk a corporate programme.

Executives spend an intensive five to ten days in Marbella learning a new European language - while improving their golf handicap.

"Combining the best of sport and business is the agencies philosophy, but when you add the sun, sea, top-quality food, hotels and the friendly natured locals, it's not difficult to see why Spain is the top destination for corporate events each year.