Rushing for sun? You've had it!

Even travellers willing to pay top prices for a break have been disappointed as East Lancashire families search for better weather.

Helmshore-based Airtours put on extra flights but seats were snatched up within hours.

Altham's Travel, Clitheroe, had a steady flow of customers looking to give miserable May a miss and find a hotspot.

Julie Ridgway, assistant manager, said: "May is always a busy time and the Spring Bank Holiday weekend is particularly popular.

"There are usually good deals to be had but not this year.

"Prices have not come down and bargain-hunters have gone home disappointed."

One of the reasons for the shortage of places is a consolidation move by tour companies.

Paul Willers, of Central Travel, Burnley, said: "In the past holiday companies have provided too many seats on too many planes and have been able to offer last-minute bargains.

"This year they have cut down on places in the hope of matching demand. "But it is not an exact science and demand this week has been much greater than availability of seats."

Spain and Turkey were the favourite destinations this weekend for Blackburn tourists.

Wendy McNulty, manager at Going Places, Blackburn, said: "We still have some good value holidays available for next week, after the bank holiday, and during June. But this weekend is definitely booked up.

"The cold weather in May has not helped. People just wanted to get away."

Sheila Salt, owner of Accrington Travel Agency, said: "This weekend is always very busy and unless families book months in advance at brochure prices, they are going to be left at home during the holiday.

"There are still holidays to be had from Tuesday but customers could be paying full prices."

Manchester Airport expects to handle 204,000 passengers during the holiday period. Rushing for sun? You've had it!

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