Bookings for festive coach breaks through travel agents are up 15% on last year, according to The JG Travel Group.

In the last four weeks, 56% of all trade bookings have been for November and December departures, with Christmas markets accounting for 35% of all festive bookings with the group.

Trade Sales Manager Claire Dutton said: “Agents have really got behind our festive breaks, which is so encouraging.

“Our festive brochures are due to land in the next few days in time for the September key booking period, so if any agents are not promoting Christmas breaks – now is definitely the time to do so.”

Omega Breaks has boosted its programme, with more West End show options added to its three-day New Year Theatre and Gala Dinner breaks, while National Holidays and Just Go! Holidays have created different versions of their brochures to ensure agents have targeted products relevant to their local pick-up points.