Police in Cheshire have confirmed they are investigating a travel agency amid reports customers have been left thousands of pounds out of pocket having booked holidays that may not exist.
It has been reported locally that Nantwich Travel has not been open since Monday and customers have been congregating outside in an attempt get an update about their bookings and demand their tickets are handed over.
The Crewe Chronicle reported it has spoken to a number of customers, including honeymooners and a group that handed over £18,000, who have been unable to contact the agent.
A spokesman for Abta confirmed that despite the shop facia bearing the Abta logo, the business has not been a member of the organisation since April 30 2013, meaning recent bookings will not be protected under the body’s financial protection scheme.
A Cheshire Police spokesman said: “Cheshire Police has received several calls from members of the public regarding a travel agency in Nantwich.
“Police are currently investigating whether any criminal offences have taken place.”
The Global Travel Group, which Nantwich Travel became a member of this year, said in a statement that it is “supporting the police with their enquiries”.
“We are saddened to learn of any possible misconduct,” said a spokesman.
“We urge anyone who is concerned about a holiday booking, or any payment they made to Nantwich Travel, to contact the police directly.
“We are unable to comment further on an ongoing police investigation.”
No one was answering calls at Nantwich Travel.