A MAN whose 30th wedding anniversary celebrations in Jamaica were ‘ruined’ when he collapsed in his hotel room after contracting salmonella is still showing symptoms six months later, according to his solicitors.

Ian Counsell, 51, from Haslingden, travelled to the five-star Riu Palace hotel in Montego Bay, Jamaica, with his wife Christine, as a celebration of their 30th wedding anniversary in March but became ill.

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He and his wife have now instructed expert travel lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate the cause of his illness and the hygiene standards at the hotel.

According to his solicitors, just days into their two-week break, booked through Thomson Holidays, Mr Counsell began to suffer severe stomach cramps, diarrhoea and vomiting and was referred by medical staff at the resort to Mobay Hospital where he discharged later the same day.

Mr Counsell’s symptoms continued and later that evening he collapsed at the hotel and was once again taken to hospital where he stayed for two nights and it was confirmed he had contracted salmonella.

On his return to the UK, Mr Counsell continued to be ill.

He took three weeks off work as a result of his symptoms and he continues to suffer almost six months after the holiday.

Mr Counsell, a construction site manager, said: “We booked this holiday to celebrate 30 years of marriage and expected it to be a holiday of a lifetime.

“The holiday was completely ruined by the illness; it has changed my life and I’m still suffering to this day.

“I’ve also had to change jobs because of the impact of the continuing symptoms.”

According to Mr Counsell, food at the all-inclusive hotel was often left uncovered for long periods and a number of meals during his stay were served lukewarm.

Jennifer Mullins, an expert travel illness lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, representing Mr Counsell, said: “We are determined to help Mr Counsell and his wife obtain the answers they deserve.”

A spokesman for Thomson Holidays, said: “Thomson is sorry to hear about Mr Counsell’s experience.

“Thomson closely audits all resorts to ensure health, hygiene and comfort levels are in line with industry standards.”