DEVASTATED Bridgwater staff have taken to social media to thank customers for their support following the shock collapse of travel operator Thomas Cook.

The tour operator’s branch in Fore Street was among hundreds up and down the country that closed when the 178-year-old company went into liquidation on Monday (September 22.)

The Bridgwater staff are among the 9,000 in the UK and 22,000 worldwide who have lost their jobs.

In a post on social media on Wednesday (September 25) Paul Doble, a former staff member at Thomas Cook in Bridgwater, said staff 'truly did not know' what was going to happen and thanked customers for their support.

The post said: "From the team at Thomas Cook, Bridgwater, we are absolutely devastated by the recent collapse of our company.

"We truly did not know that this was going to happen. We would like to apologise to all of our customers that have been affected with a cancelled booking.

"Unfortunately we do not have any access to the systems or the store so if you are affected, please refer to the CAA & ABTA for any further guidance and to claim your money back.

"If you have a booking with Thomas Cook which is with a third party operator eg.Tui, Disneyland Paris, P&O Cruises etc it may be a good idea to contact them directly, for support.

"The process we believe is not opening until September 30.

"The team and I would just like to thank every single one of our customers that have walked through our doors, believed in us and supported us over the years.

"We hope that your memories from distant travels will remain in your thoughts just as our fond memories which we have with you all will.

"Thank you to all our friends, family and customers for all your support and kindness through this difficult time.

"Paul, Sarah, Danni, Dani."