TWO of the biggest names in travel in the North East will be pitching vacation against staycation.

John Hays, founder and managing director of Hays Travel, and John Waterworth, chief executive of Parkdean Holidays, will give an insight into the different faces of travel and tourism at an Entrepreneurs’ Forum event next Thursday. Together they have more than 60 years’ experience.

But the parts of the industry in which they operate are different.

John Waterworth is on the operational committee of the British Graded Holiday Parks Scheme (BGHPS), is a former director of the National Caravan Council (NCC) and former director of Lincolnshire TEC. He has twice been a regional finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year in 2004 and 2007.

Nicola Short, executive director of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: “Both Johns are outstanding entrepreneurs, picking up accolades within the industry and beyond in recognition of their business acumen and achievements.”

The event is at Brewin Dolphin, in Time Central, Newcastle, starting at 6.30pm on February 7. It is free to attend for Forum members, £15 for guests and £50 for non-members. Guests are asked to book, tel: 0191 500 7780. www.entrepreneursforum.net