Expert Travel Lawyers Issue Court Proceedings Against Tour Operator After Illness Ruins Relaxing Break

Specialist travel illness lawyers have confirmed that they have issued Court proceedings against tour operator TUI UK Limited T/A First Choice after a Jamaican holiday was ruined by Salmonella food poisoning leaving the victim with on-going gastric symptoms.

Wayne Botten, from Maidstone, in Kent travelled to the Gran Bahia Principe, Runaway Bay in Jamaica in June 2013 for a relaxing break with his partner, but fell ill during the two-week stay and was diagnosed with Salmonella on his return home from the holiday.

Now, international travel law experts at Irwin Mitchell representing the 43-year-old have issued court proceedings against tour operator TUI UK Limited T/A First Choice.

During his stay at the all-inclusive resort, Wayne suffered with diarrhoea, stomach cramps, blood in his stools, weight loss and lethargy.

He told lawyers at Irwin Mitchell of his concerns about the hygiene at the hotel including; some of the food being left uncovered in the restaurant for long periods of time during the sittings. He also reports that on occasions the same utensils were used to handle different types of foods and that there were instances of undercooked food being served such as eggs. 

Expert Opinion

“We have been left with no choice but to issue court proceedings against TUI UK Limited T/A First Choice as they are yet to confirm their position regarding liability.

“Salmonella is a potentially fatal form of food poisoning that can leave sufferers with permanent symptoms.

“Our work on behalf of victims of illness outbreaks both in the UK and abroad means that we understand the impact that gastric illness can have on those affected - often leaving people with long-term health problems.

“The couple have advised us how Wayne’s illness spoilt their holiday and Wayne continues to suffer symptoms nearly two years on from the holiday.”
Elizabeth Tetzner - Partner

When Wayne returned home from his holiday, he went to see his local GP who confirmed he had contracted Salmonella and was prescribed antibiotics to treat his condition. He is also still suffering from on-going symptoms.

Wayne, who had to take four weeks off work as an Asphalter to recover, said: “I was really looking forward to visiting Jamaica as I have always wanted to travel there. Instead of the holiday of a lifetime I was left in agony from my symptoms.

“Not only did my illness ruin the holiday but it’s been nearly two years since the holiday and I am still experiencing symptoms.”