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Domestic coach firms cater for ‘rule of six’

Domestic tour operators are restricting booking sizes following the new ‘rule of six’ but say it is “business as usual” for now.

The government reduced the number of people allowed to meet from 30 to six in England this week due to rising numbers of Covid-19 cases.

Escorted tour operators initially feared the change would cause chaos and prevent group tours from going ahead.

Following clarification from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Abta this week told members that tours of up to 30 could continue, but groups must be “bubbled” into no more than six people at destinations.

Arena Rail Holidays, which has now reduced maximum booking party sizes to six, said the government’s announcement had caused it to go “back to basics” to ensure every part of its tours met guidelines.

Managing director Steve Goodenough said: “Initially this felt like yet another huge setback and threat to the UK travel industry.

“We had to unpick every element that makes up a tour – accommodation, dining arrangements, transport and access to attractions – to determine its compliance with current regulations.”

He added: “Those of us involved in UK touring have, for the time being, been able to breathe a sigh of relief that the latest tightening of rules may not have the devastating impact we first feared.”

Coach holiday specialist National Holidays, owned by JG Travel Group, said the announcement briefly “dampened” demand as holidaymakers sought to interpret the rules.

The operator has not limited booking size but said in cases of more than six, customers would be advised of the new rules.

Trade sales manager Claire Dutton said all hotel rooms were already limited to four. She added: “As long as our coaches and all our partners follow Covid-secure procedures, we can carry on.”

Newmarket Holidays head of trade sales Richard Forde said clarification from Abta meant it was “business as usual” for UK tours. Bookings were rarely for more than two people but would be limited to six if necessary, he added.

UK self-catering operator Hoseasons has limited its booking group sizes to six, with exemptions for those from a single household or part of a support bubble.

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