HOLIDAYMAKERS looking for bargain breaks were today warned to be on the alert once again for a travel company offering 'cut price' luxury Caribbean cruises.

Florida-based Travel House have posted leaflets to many householders in East Lancashire, congratulating 'customers' on being selected to receive the bargain cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama Island.

But when 'customers' read the small print, they discover it is simply an advertising mail shot and the SeaEscape cruise is part of a holiday package costing 299 dollars, excluding port fare, hotel taxes and flight charges.

The holiday also has to be booked within three days of receiving the letter.

Darwen couple Gary and Karen Turpin were among those targeted.

"The letter was addressed to my wife," said Garry, manager of Tag Clothing, Darwen. "It said it was urgent and posted in Watford.

"But we realised that it was just a big con and I want to be sure that other people are aware of this, too."

David Brown, at Lancashire Trading Standards, said: "We had similar problems with a Florida travel company at Christmas when they sent out advertising which didn't meet UK standards.

"We have contacted Watford Trading Standards about this new leaflet and they are looking into it.

"Our advice to people is shop around and get the full price of the holiday first.

"And if you do phone, don't get taken in by any sales talk and be aware that you will be calling America.

"People should also know that if they pay by credit card and there is misrepresentation, they can sue the credit card company."

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