Center Parcs last night reversed a decision to send holidaymakers home on the day of the Queen’s funeral amid an angry backlash from customers.
The domestic resorts company faced a deluge of criticism after guests were initially told to leave sites for 24 hours on Monday, designated as a national bank holiday.
Many complained on social media that they would have to pack up midway through their breaks after the company announced they they would have to vacate parks on Monday morning and return on Tuesday.
Confirming the U-turn, the company said: “The vast majority of our guests are either due to arrive or depart on Monday 19th September.
“We have however, reviewed our position regarding the very small number of guests who are not due to depart on Monday and we will be allowing them to stay on our villages rather than having to leave and return on Tuesday.
“The villages will still remain closed on Monday and we will be offering a discount for the lack of facilities available on that day.”
The decision to close all five UK resorts was taken as “a mark of respect” to allow as many staff as possible “to be part of this historic moment”.
Center Parcs confirmed guests would receive a discount if their holiday was cut short by the closure, while full refunds were also available. It said it would also compensate customers for the closure of facilities on Monday.
Center Parcs added: “We have contacted all the guests due to arrive on Monday 19th September and offered them a number of different options. Our villages will be open to welcome guests on Tuesday 2oth September.”
The operator has five sites in the UK, at Sherwood Forest, Elveden Forest, Longleat Forest, Whinfell Forest and Woburn Forest.