05/07/2010 - Last-minute bookings to increase
English hotels and guest houses could be given a boost from last-minute holiday bookings this summer, it has been revealed.
The VisitEngland organisation revealed that only 25% of holiday businesses are reporting higher advanced bookings compared to last year's figures.
But more last-minute bookings are being reported by around 40% of holiday businesses compared to summer 2009.
The figures have given 80% of holiday home providers a more confident outlook on this summer season.
VisitEngland also reported that one in three holiday businesses reported more visitors in April and May this year than in the same period last year.
This was an improvement on the first three months of the year when the severe weather contributed to only one in five businesses showing an increase.
There were notable differences by accommodation type for April and May this year, with 38% of camping and caravanning businesses and 37% of hotels reporting more guests, compared to just 27% of bed and breakfast/guest houses and self-catering businesses.
VisitEngland chief executive James Berresford said: "I am delighted to see that the industry is full of confidence for the summer this year."
The results were based on a survey of more than 500 holiday businesses or managers.
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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