LAWYERS are taking court action against tour operator Thomson after a Hampshire mum and eight other passengers were taken ill on a Christmas cruise.

Irwin Mitchell, one of the UK’s largest law firms, says it is seeking “justice” for travellers who suffered gastric symptoms and chest infections during a voyage aboard the Thomson Majesty two years ago.

The passengers have criticised the cleanliness on the ship, claiming table linen and utensils in the restaurant were dirty.

They have also alleged that food served on board was sometimes left out for long periods or served lukewarm.

The claimants include Tracy Owen, 44, of Holbury, who said she was still suffering as a result of the illness she contracted during what should have been a special Christmas cruise to Tenerife.

She went on the voyage to take her mind off the anniversary of her father’s death – but suffered “horrible” gastric symptoms on Boxing Day.

Tracy said her 12-year-old son Billy was also affected.

She added: “I suffered stomach cramps and a fever but was only given some medical advice from staff on board as we were due to disembark.

“There was nothing they could do despite the fact we had a flight and a coach trip, during which we potentially exposed other travellers to our illness.

“It’s disappointing that more than two years later Thomson is still putting up a fight after our ordeal on board the ship.”

Jennifer Downing, an international personal injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, added: “We had hoped to agree a settlement out-of-court but the tour operator has left us with no choice but to take this course of action.

“We’ve heard a number of worrying first-hand accounts from passengers who fell ill on the cruise ship across a two-month period.

“All our clients are desperate for answers regarding how their illnesses emerged, as well as reassurances as to what steps if any can be taken to prevent others facing the same problems in the future.”

A Thomson spokesman said: “We are sorry to hear of the customers’ experience on their cruise. As this matter is now subject to legal proceedings it would be inappropriate to comment at this time.

“We’d like to reassure customers that we regularly audit all accommodations we feature in respect of health and safety, including hygiene.”