Christmas decorations may still be up but travel agents across East Lancashire have seen sun-starved shoppers rushing to snap up holidays abroad for summer 99 and beyond.

Traditional top destinations such as Spain and Greece are still popular, with holidays in Mediterranean countries accounting for around 70 per cent of bookings.

And the theme parks and attractions of Florida seem to be catching the eye of globe-trotters across the area.

Debbie Gorton, manageress of Althams Travel in Blackburn, said: "People don't seem to be at all short of money after the Christmas period. In fact, I would say that holidays are top priority for a lot of people.

"We have been rushed off our feet and Florida does seem to be one of the top destinations with families in particular. I think a lot of people have done Majorca, Spain and Greece, and are now looking to head a bit further afield."

Althams is one of many high street travel agents offering big incentives to sun-seekers who book early for the summer.

Lunn Poly had a Christmas sale until New Year's Eve and bargain hunting holiday-makers are booking now to try to get the best deals.

A spokesman for Lunn Poly said: "There's a lot of interest from families who are eager to book their preferred accommodation earlier, as they tend to travel at peak times like school holidays, and these are snapped up first.

"Also tour operators like Skytours guarantee free child places and these are highly sought after. Indeed, around 59 per cent of bookings at this time are for families with children." Alison Curley, branch manager of Co-op Travel, King William Street, Blackburn, added: "Our market research shows that as soon as people have got Christmas out of the way they are planning their summer holiday which is their next major expenditure.

"We have noticed a very dramatic increase of "booking fever" which hits us earlier each year as people want to book when there is peak availability for the holidays of their choice."

Millennium breaks have proved popular with customers at Brunlea Travel World Choice, Burnley. Assistant manager Scott Harrison said: "No particular season or destination has been asked for more than others. Many people have been booking the few Millennium holidays which are left, despite their high cost."

The Going Places branch in Accrington's Arndale Centre had one customer trying to book a holiday to Turkey before the shop had opened last Wednesday.

Manager Hilary Allen said: "I think people must have been looking through brochures during the festive break. It is definitely busier than this time last year. "

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