The collapse of Specialist Leisure Group Limited, including its leading coach holiday brand Shearings, which has a history stretching back around a hundred years, is a tragedy for its dedicated staff across the country, its many suppliers across the country, and of course for its customers, says CTA.

Coach customers of Shearings who have booked package holidays are fully protected through the Bonded Coach Holiday scheme, and should be contacted by the administrators regarding refunds.

The news is an indication of the challenges that have faced coach tour operators in the UK who have been unable to provide tours and excursions over the spring and early summer due to the lockdown. The sector will need ongoing support to enable it to re-emerge as soon as possible so that it can play a part in a national recovery plan for tourism, and help spearhead a renewed emphasis on domestic tourism.