Kenneth Townsley, the founder of Gold Medal Travel Group passed away earlier this week. He founded Gold Medal in Blackpool in 1978, building the business from the ground up, with a vision to place Gold Medal at the forefront of emerging holiday destinations. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to travel saw him establish Gold Medal as a true pioneer in the industry.
Those who knew Ken personally, many who still work at Gold Medal today, remember him fondly as a man of deep humility who led not through grand gestures, but through a quiet, unwavering kindness that defined the workplace. Whilst not a man for the spotlight, he was known for his vast heart and caring for his team with a sincerity that went far beyond professional duty, treating everyone with kindness and respect.
Gold Medal Travel Group, which was acquired by dnata in 2014, paid tribute to its founder. Simon Applebaum, Managing Director said: "While I never had the privilege of knowing Ken personally, his legacy is woven into every part of Gold Medal. The company he built, the pioneering spirit he championed, and the values of kindness and respect he embedded into our culture continue to guide us today. We are deeply grateful for the foundations he laid which have allowed Gold Medal to thrive and grow into the business it is today. Our thoughts are with Ken’s family and all of our colleagues, past and present, who were fortunate enough to know him."
