A YOUNG Newport couple is taking legal action after their Egyptian holiday to celebrate their graduation was ruined by gastric illness.

Chris Raymond, 23, and his then partner travelled to the Baron Palms in Sharks Bay, Egypt, to celebrate graduating from Swansea University this summer.

The holiday ended with Mr Raymond on a drip to treat dehydration after they both suffered from severe diarrhoea, vomiting, headaches and stomach cramps.

The couple claim their holiday was ruined and they were still ill when they returned to Newport.

They have now instructed travel law experts to take legal action on their behalf against tour operator Thomas Cook.

The pair have complained to lawyers about seeing food left uncovered in the hotel restaurant with flies buzzing around, and some food seemingly being reheated and served up in more than one sitting.

Gurpinder Chana a specialist travel lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing them, said: "Sadly this young couple's holiday was ruined and has left them with bad memories of what should have been a fantastic celebratory trip away.

"We are now investigating the couple's concerns about food hygiene at the hotel and we hope Thomas Cook will work with us quickly and amicably to resolve this case on our clients' behalf."

Mr Raymond became ill with diarrhoea, vomiting and constant stomach pains which led to his blood pressure dropping causing him to pass out. His partner also experienced similar symptoms and even after coming home both continued to suffer.

Mr Raymond said: "My holiday was a present from my mum and dad but ended up being a waste of money following the illness during the second half of our 22 day holiday. It was meant to be an enjoyable and relaxing trip.

"The symptoms we both suffered from were horrible. I saw the hotel doctor a couple of times and he actually put me on a drip in my room which was a pretty scary experience.

"We were also very disappointed with the holiday reps as we tried to cancel a trip we had booked as we were so ill but we were told because it was such short notice we wouldn't get our money back so we tried to make the most of it."

A spokesman for Thomas Cook said: "Thomas Cook takes reports of any illness very seriously and works hard with its hotel partners to ensure that all aspects of health and hygiene are closely monitored.

"We were very sorry to hear that Chris and his partner were unwell and we hope they fully recovery.

"A full investigation will take place once we receive further information from their solicitor."

Have you had a holiday nightmare? Contact the newsdesk on 01633 777219.