Staff at Thomas Cook remained tight-lipped last night as they left the Bradford site for the day.

Many were clutching envelopes containing letters detailing the announcement and revealed a 90-day consultation period was about to begin.

Most employees approached by the Telegraph & Argus declined to comment about the news, but one man, who did not want to be named, said the mood in the office was “very down”.

He added: “Everyone is stunned. I don’t really know what to say, it’s just awful.”

Another member of staff said: “I can’t believe it. Although it’s not a complete shock, everyone’s stunned. It’s a lot to take in, and I’m sure for most of us transferring to another office is out of the question.”