TWO York tour operators have joined forces to boost independent travel.

The partnership between Inntravel, based near Castle Howard, and Great Rail Journeys, of St Saviourgate, York, sees the companies working under the umbrella of a newly-formed parent company, known as the Amber Travel Partnership. It is hoped that more like-minded owner-managed travel firms will join the group in the future.

The alliance was the brainchild of Richard Hearn, who founded Inntravel with his wife, Linda, in 1984 to offer small French hotels with plenty of character to their customers.

The company now offers gentle activity holidays in Europe and New England.

Richard, 54, who was elected the next chairman of the Association of Independent Tour Operators last month, has championed the independence of specialist tour operators for many years. He said: "Creativity flourishes within the independent sector, but there are times when you need more muscle and I would encourage others to look at forms of cooperation with colleagues, whether on an informal basis or by the formal approach that we are undertaking."

The joint venture will allow the companies to pool their resources, including marketing and management strategies, without losing their identities.

Howard Trinder, who co-founded Great Rail Journeys with Ian Macbeth, said: "The DNA of our two brands is very similar.

"Whether visiting well known and beloved corners of the world by fascinating rail journeys, or exploring on foot unspoiled, unusual corners of Europe, we have a shared belief that the journey taken by our customers should be as great as the destination."

Two more independent operators are expected to join Amber within the next year.

Updated: 09:59 Thursday, May 06, 2004