CHESTER-BASED luxury tour operator The Eden Collection has bought fellow operator Seasons in Style for an undisclosed fee.

The Eden Collection was founded a year ago by Paul Beacall, Jon Clee and Claire Parsons, previously part of the senior management team at another Chester firm, Elegant Resorts.

It said that growth in its first year had been “impressive” with sales ahead of its forecast. Its managing director, Paul Beacall, said: “We have worked incredibly hard to establish the company and it’s a testament to the team’s dedication that we have been able to acquire Seasons in Style in such a short time.

“The Eden Collection has performed well in a difficult climate, smashing targets from the outset, and we are confident that our ambitious plans for next year will come to fruition.

“The current strength and positioning of both The Eden Collection and Seasons in Style presents an attractive opportunity for the luxury travel sector.”

Peter Williams, chairman of Seasons in Style, said: “The Eden Collection is a young company full of ambition, and I’m delighted that we have joined forces with them. I am confident that, through working together, the two brands will become a formidable force in the UK luxury travel market next year.”