Betty from County Durham, operated the Annfield Plain Post Office with her late husband. She has previously revealed that she spent thousands of pounds of her own savings covering shortfalls that never actually existed after faulty data made it appear money was missing from the branch.
Speaking on Good Morning Britain on Friday (October 10), she discussed the “heartbreak” the victims had suffered, reports Wales Online.
“Totally disgusted that a government could treat their own people in the manner that they have treated the sub postmasters,” she said.
“Every one of us, not only me, every one of us. They’ve killed a lot of them.”
Betty told the ITV programme’s presenters Kate Garraway and Adil Ray: “They haven’t taken the one iota of care to any of the people left on their own, the families left, the struggles that they’ve had to go through and all the heartbreak and everything associated with it.
“And they’ve stood back, not our fault, we don’t want anything to do with it and if, when they’re forced to do with it, it’s as little as possible and how they can turn it over upside down so that the blame doesn’t go on to them, it’s all the postmasters.”
Viewers at home were moved by Betty’s comments, with one writing on X: “Get a government minister on at the same time as Betty so she can get them told!!”
“I’m so sorry for Betty,” another person penned on the platform, previously known as X. “Another person let down by government after government like so many.”
The scandal and its magnitude have come to light in recent years, with the Post Office later expressing regret to those affected, stating they were “deeply sorry for the suffering caused to so many people by Post Office’s past actions”.
In a statement, the Post Office further added that “we will continue to learn from past mistakes and are committed to continuing to transform today’s Post Office, rebuild trust, and move forward for our current postmasters and the 10 million customers who rely on us each week”.
This week the government announced that all victims of the scandal who are claiming compensation will be entitled to free legal advice to help with appeals.
Eloise Barker, a writer for Responsible Travel, seeks out places to go when your kids have outgrown Lapland that are more affordable than the Finnish winter wonderland has become in recent years
There are ways to enjoy the snow and festive season without breaking the bank(Image: Slovakian Explorer)
Lapland, with its powdery snow, Northern Lights and Sámi culture, is popular for good reason, but its Santa Claus package holidays are pricey and book up fast: more and more people are visiting, some even taking extreme trips to visit for just one day.
Last year, we reported that the average price for a family holiday in Lapland from the UK was between £4,000 and £7,000.
But Europe is packed with winter wonderlands. You won’t find the big man in the red suit in these destinations – but you’ll still have a jolly good holiday…
Have you been on an amazing Christmas trip that you think Mirror readers would enjoy? We’d love to hear about it. Email [email protected]
Slovenia
All of Slovenia’s mountain resorts can be reached within 90 minutes from Ljubljana, its compact and pretty capital. There’s been almost €80 million of investment in infrastructure like ski lifts across multiple resorts, where you can also sled, snowshoe and go winter walking. The Post Office’s annual ski report noted that the cost of skiing in Slovenia’s Kranjska Gora resort had fallen 23.5% in the 2024/2025 season compared to the year before. Plus: the city of Celje transforms into a fairytale land in December, earning it the title ‘European City of Christmas 2025’.
The average price of a double room in Slovenia is £121/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Ljubljana start at £29 in December; from Edinburgh, £76 (Skyscanner).
Slovakia
“Slovakia really is a very authentic, family-friendly winter destination and the High Tatras is still a hidden gem of Europe,” says Petr Ivanek, founder of Slovakia Explorer. “In comparison to the Alps or Lapland – British pounds go much further.”
There are thermal spas, water parks like Bešenova Aqua Park, and snowy High Tatras resorts, and the mountains are less crowded than at Zakopane on the Polish side of their slopes. Stop in Bratislava first: last year, the Post Office named Slovakia’s capital as Europe’s cheapest Christmas market destination.
The average price of a double room in Slovakia is £96/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Bratislava in December start at £15; from Edinburgh, £26. Direct flights from London to Poprad start at £15 (Skyscanner).
Czech Republic
For all things Christmassy, consider the Czech Republic. Prices fell in the country last year, and Brno was voted European Capital of Christmas in 2024. Capital Prague remains a staple for Christmas markets and child-friendly activities, plus its public transport is free for children under 15. Fun fact: the Czech Republic has arguably the largest ice skating ‘rink’ in the world – at Lake Lipno, just outside the medieval fairytale town of Cesky Krumlov.
The average price of a double room in the Czech Republic is £111/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Prague start at £26 in December; from Edinburgh, £42 (Skyscanner).
Romania
Swap the beaten track for wolf prints in the snow – in Transylvania, where villagers go Christmas carolling in traditional costume between beautifully decorated wooden houses.
You can ride about by horse-drawn sleigh or husky sled, and see atmospheric Brasov city and Bran Castle with beguiling snowy backdrops. Or switch the very old for the very new: an ice hotel, the only one in southeastern Europe, is built every year, 2,000m up in the Făgăraș Mountains.
The average price of a double room in Romania is £83/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Brasov start at £56 in December (Skyscanner).
Bulgaria
“Two of Bulgaria’s national parks, Rila and Pirin, offer wonderful opportunities for winter holidays and for families interested in winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing,” says Anna Tuliyska at Sofia-based travel company Odysseia-In. The regions’ thermal springs also come into their own in cold weather. Whilst prices have risen in Bulgaria and may rise again when it adopts the euro in January 2026, the Post Office report ranked Bulgarian ski resorts among the cheapest in Europe in 2025.
The average price of a double room in Bulgaria is £101/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Sofia start at £17 in December; from Edinburgh, £36 (Skyscanner).
Expect camel treks instead of husky rides, powdery sand not powdery snow, and sandboarding over snowboarding. Bolt on a stay in Marrakech for souks and stocking fillers – with the snowy peaks of the Atlas
Mountains framing the horizon. Prices drop in the winter months but can rise over Christmas.
The average price of a double room in Morocco is £180/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Marrakech start at £15 in December; from Edinburgh, £31 (Skyscanner).
The brother of late NFL star and U.S. Army Ranger Pat Tillman is being held in custody in connection with a vehicle driven into a Northern California post office.
The San Jose Police Department said in an email to The Times on Monday that 44-year-old resident Richard Tillman was booked on charges of arson after he allegedly drove a car into the Almaden Valley Station Post Office at around 3 a.m. Sunday and caused the box lobby area to catch fire.
The fire was extinguished and no injuries were reported.
According to to the Santa Clara County Sheriff Office’s inmate locator, Richard Tillman is being held on a $60,000 bond and has a court hearing scheduled for Wednesday.
“The motive and circumstances are still under investigation,” the SJPD said.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which is leading the investigation, said in a statement emailed to The Times that it is looking into the incident “as a potentially intentional act.”
NBC Bay Area reported that the suspect told officers on the scene that he is Pat Tillman’s brother. The station also reports that the suspect live-streamed the incident on social media.
A third Tillman brother, Kevin, released a statement Monday.
“Our family is aware that my brother Richard has been arrested. First and foremost, we are relieved that no one was physically harmed,” Kevin Tillman stated. “We have limited information at this time but we are in communication with local authorities and are providing as much background and context as we can.
“To be clear, it’s no secret that Richard has been battling severe mental health issues for many years. He has been livestreaming, what I’ll call, his altered self on social media for anyone to witness. Unfortunately, securing the proper care and support for him has proven incredibly difficult — or rather, impossible. As a result, none of this is as shocking as it should be.”
In the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, Pat Tillman famously walked away from a three-year, $3.6-million contract offer from the Arizona Cardinals to enlist in the Army, along with Kevin.
On April 22, 2004, Pat Tillman was killed by friendly fire in the province of Khost, Afghanistan. Richard Tillman spoke at his brother’s public memorial service on May 4, 2004, at the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden.
Last week, the San Francisco Chronicle reports, Richard Tillman had posted an 11-minute video onto YouTube in which he stated he would “take down the system,” including the U.S. government. His YouTube channel has since been removed, the Chronicle reports, but previously contained several videos “posted in recent months documenting his own apparent unraveling.”
Turkey’s Marmaris has been named the cheapest short-haul holiday destination for UK families, according to Post Office Travel Money, which ranked Sunny Beach in Bulgaria in the second spot
Milo Boyd Digital Travel Reporter and Neil Lancefield PA Transport Correspondent
10:50, 21 Jul 2025
Marmaris has been named the cheapest short-haul destination
Turkey’s Marmaris has been crowned the most affordable short-haul holiday destination for UK families.
The coastal resort boasts the lowest costs among 16 popular locations for a selection of 10 tourist essentials, according to Post Office Travel Money. This featured merely £67.67 for a three-course meal for two adults and two children with wine and soft drinks.
Additional bargain prices included 16p for a 1.5-litre bottle of mineral water from a supermarket, £1.81 for a bottle or can of cola at a cafe or bar, and £2.61 for insect repellent. Post Office Travel Money explained the bargain rates for UK holidaymakers are partially attributed to a dramatic decline in the Turkish lira’s value.
Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, emerged as the second most economical destination, whilst Portugal’s Algarve claimed third place.
The Turkish resort has long been a budget favourite (Image: Getty Images)
Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at Post Office, said: “The collapse of the lira makes Turkish resorts like Marmaris a natural choice for families. However, visitors should be aware that while sterling is worth a third more than last July, local prices have increased dramatically because of the currency’s collapse.
“Thankfully, once the positive exchange rate is applied to those local prices, British visitors will only have to pay around 10% more than a year ago, and this increase is much lower than in many other destinations.”
The complete cost for the selection of items at Marmaris (£128.99) stood at nearly half the expense when compared with the priciest destination examined, Spain’s Ibiza (£242.79). Costs for British holidaymakers have increased in 13 out of the 16 destinations surveyed.
Ms Plunkett explained: “We found big price variations in the destinations surveyed, particularly comparing those in the eurozone. For example, prices in the Algarve are almost £100 lower for the same 10 items surveyed than in Ibiza.
“This makes it vitally important for holidaymakers to do their homework and take enough travel money to cover costs in the resort they are visiting.”
The Mirror’s data team recently put together an interactive map showing the most bargain and biggest rip-off destinations in the world. Click here to check it out.
The NHS has approved medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy to tackle obesity and diabetes, with private prescriptions also on the rise
10:12, 17 Jul 2025Updated 11:19, 17 Jul 2025
It’s important to have valid travel insurance when going abroad(Image: Chalabala via Getty Images)
Experts have issued a warning that approximately half a million individuals using weight loss injections could potentially jeopardise their travel insurance this summer. Medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, utilised to combat diabetes and obesity, have experienced a surge in demand following their NHS approval.
Private prescriptions for these drugs are also on the rise, with an estimated 3.4 million people predicted to be eligible for treatment on the NHS alone over the next 12 years. However, those using these weight-loss injections are now being cautioned that they could risk their crucial travel cover if they plan to holiday this summer.
According to the Daily Mail, it’s mandatory for travellers to disclose any pre-existing conditions and medication when obtaining insurance. Yet, many people using weight-loss injections might not view it as medication or may neglect to declare it when purchasing cover.
Experts have clarified that these drugs are categorised as treatment, even if procured online without a GP’s prescription.
They warn that failure to disclose usage of weight-loss injections and any associated health conditions could result in insurers refusing to pay out in the event of a claim, reports Bristol Live.
Kara Gammell, from comparison website MoneySuperMarket, has advised: “If you’re prescribed these drugs for obesity, diabetes or any other condition, it’s essential to declare both the medication and the underlying health issue when buying your policy.
“Failing to do so could invalidate your cover – even if your claim has nothing to do with the treatment.
Ms Gammell also warned that those receiving private prescriptions must still disclose their medication, stating: “Insurers don’t distinguish between NHS and private prescriptions – if you’re taking it, they need to know. The fact that it wasn’t prescribed through your GP doesn’t exempt you from disclosure.”
She emphasised the necessity of transparency, particularly for those who have procured medication privately. Even individuals consuming these drugs without a prescription are not excused.
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) warns: “If any prescription medicine is taken without approval from a doctor, especially if it may have side effects that could lead to complications, this could void your cover and cause issues should you need to make a claim.”
The Association of British Travel Agents has also advised ITV News that it is always wise to check with the FCDO travel advice to see if there are any restrictions in place when taking medications into the country you are visiting.
Not all countries have given the green light to the same weight-loss medications as the UK, and airport authorities might raise questions about any drugs they discover, particularly if they’re not sanctioned in their nation.
The ABI found that the average insurance claim for individuals aged between 36 and 40 is £518, which jumps to £1,830 for those aged 71 to 75. In more extreme scenarios, insurance claims can soar into the tens of thousands.
Yet, securing single-trip coverage for Europe can be quite economical, starting at just £16, according to Go Compare. ITV’s experts advised: “First of all, you need to declare a pre-existing condition to your travel insurance provider anyway. This will likely result in a higher premium, but if you do not and the provider finds out, they may cancel your cover.”
They further caution: “They will also likely refuse to pay out if you fall ill due to the condition while on holiday. If one of the jabs has been prescribed for the preexisting condition they it is unlikely you will need to also reveal the medication you are taking for it.”
Insurance companies, including industry leader Aviva, have varied stances on this matter. Aviva insists that customers must disclose any diagnosed illnesses, diseases, or injuries for which they’ve been prescribed medication, clarifying: “This includes anyone who has been prescribed weight loss medication for obesity.
“If a customer fails to disclose a medical condition for which they’ve been prescribed medication, we will not cover any claims relating to this under the terms of the policy.”
Staysure also recommends that customers disclose their use of weight loss injections, treating them like any other prescribed medication. Not doing so could void your insurance for any medical claims ‘directly or indirectly linked to the medication’.
The insurer added: “We can provide cover if the jab is prescribed by your GP or through a registered pharmacy, it’s part of a proper weight-loss plan, is on your medical records and your doctor confirms you are fit to fly.
“You’ll also need to make sure the jab doesn’t clash with any other medicines you’re taking, which will be assessed by the medical professional.”
Admiral Group requires customers to reveal medical conditions like obesity and diabetes, though not necessarily the medication itself. A spokesperson clarifies: “Failing to disclose the underlying condition it’s prescribed for – typically obesity or diabetes – could invalidate the policy.”
Co-op notes that failing to declare medication wouldn’t ‘automatically’ void coverage, though if the injections are connected to a medical condition, this should be mentioned during medical screening.
The Post Office consistently advises customers to declare any medical condition requiring prescription medication. It’s advisable to discuss this with your insurer.
It’s wise to secure written confirmation that your policy covers the treatment.
Ms Gammell recommends travellers to carry a copy of their prescription or a doctor’s letter and keep their medication in its original packaging: “This helps avoid issues at customs and makes it easier to replace lost or stolen medication abroad.”
Many countries in the EU and the rest of the world have strict entry requirements, many of which are related to the dates on your passport – here are two essential checks to make
Travellers could miss their holiday due to their passport(Image: Getty Images)
Holidaymakers could stand to lose thousands of pounds and even miss out on their holiday if they neglect to perform crucial checks on their passport.
Numerous countries in the EU and beyond enforce stringent entry requirements, many of which are tied to the dates on your passport. In the UK, a standard adult passport is valid for 10 years, while child passports for anyone under 16 are only valid for five years.
There are no automatic renewals or reminders for when your passport is due to expire, so it’s always the responsibility of the traveller to ensure their passport meets the necessary requirements for entry into their chosen country when booking their holiday.
Six-month date on passport
Passport holders could risk losing all the money they spent on their holiday(Image: Getty Images)
It’s generally recommended that British passports have at least six months remaining until their expiry date before travelling abroad. However, some countries may have more lenient rules, particularly within the EU.
For instance, Spain only requires travellers to have an expiry date at least three months after the day they plan to depart the Schengen area.
10-year expiry limit
Moreover, many holidaymakers should consider renewing their passports if they have less than three months until their expiry date, or if the passport is 10 years old or more from the day it was first issued. However, it’s crucial to allow ample time for passport renewal as the process can take several weeks, particularly with the expected increase in people jetting off abroad during the summer.
For those in need of a quick passport renewal, a fast-track application is available, though this comes with an extra fee.
Potential of losing thousands of pounds
Passports must meet certain entry requirements for many countries(Image: Getty Images)
If you’ve splashed out thousands of pounds on your holiday that you can’t actually enjoy because you neglected essential passport checks, you may find that you will be unable to recoup the cash. If you’ve taken out travel insurance, the insurance provider will not typically reimburse you for the costs of an emergency passport or the cost of a missed flight.
If you are unsure whether your passport is valid for a holiday you plan on going on this summer, you can use the Post Office’s passport validity checker for a wide array of popular travel destination.
Failing to carry out one check before flying could scupper your holiday plans.
An expert warned you need to check “one thing” before you go on your summer holiday(Image: Getty)
An expert has warned Brits planning a holiday abroad to do one thing or risk having their summer plans ruined. Consumer journalist Alice Beer urged travellers to check their passport in advance.
This includes checking it for any potential damage as well as its expiry date. This needs to be done as soon as possible to allow time for a replacement travel document to arrive.
Speaking on ITV’s This Morning, Alice explained: “If you’re planning on making the most of the school holidays and getting out of here, the minute your kids break up, you have got to do one thing and check your passport. Not just your passport, all the family’s passports and you’re checking for some really key things.”
If your passport is damaged you could get turned away at the airport. HM Passport Office will consider your passport damaged if:
You cannot read any of your details
Any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing
There are holes, cuts or rips in the cover
The cover is coming away
There are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage)
Alice continued: “One, check they’re not damaged. I saw someone on Instagram whose airline had stuck the luggage tag on the photo page of their passport, when they came to peel it off it damaged it.
Some countries require your passport to be valid for months after your holiday(Image: Getty)
“And she didn’t know, is this good to fly, is this not? So she spent a week, she got the fast turnaround passport. Cost her a couple of hundred quid, just in case.”
On top of potential passport damage you need to be looking at its expiration date. Alice said: “So, you’re looking for how many months have I got to run, how many months do I need on my passport to go where I’m going, you’ll find that on the Government website.”
Some countries require that your passport has at least another three or six months left on it by the end of your holiday. Before flying you should therefore check the individual requirements of each country.
However, some countries, including in the EU, don’t accept a passport that is more than 10 years old. “Is my passport, more than 10 years old?” Alice said.
“This keeps coming up, time and time again. If you renewed your passport, and you’ve got a carry over of extra months, you might find your passport is currently more than 10 years old.
“That will not get you entry into some countries and you’ll simply turned down at the gate. So check your passports, check everyone’s passports for damage and for validity.”
A standard passport renewal takes around three weeks. You can apply either online or via the post.
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Online passport application
To apply online, visit gov.uk/apply-renew-passport. Key requirements include a digital photograph, a valid payment method (credit or debit card), and the old passport for renewal applications. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of identity and citizenship.
The application fee for adults stands at £94.50, while children’s passports cost £61.50.
For those requiring assistance with the online application, local Post Office branches are available to offer support. Their staff are equipped to:
Capture your digital photo
Assist with completing the application online
However, be aware that this service incurs an additional charge.
For postal applications
You can get a paper passport application from a nearby Post Office to apply by post. Keep in mind, applying via post generally takes more time than submitting an application online.
You are required to dispatch a fully completed application form along with your supporting documents, two photographs, and the necessary fee.
Post Office team members can assist in ensuring your form is accurately filled out – though you must supply your own photos. Note that this service will cost you extra. Payments can be made with cash, or through debit or credit card transactions.
Fast-track applications
If three weeks is cutting it too close with your holiday, there are two ways to apply for an urgent passport.
GOV.UK says: “You can pay to get a passport urgently if you think the standard service will take too long.” For both of these options you will need to go to a passport office for an appointment:
One day premium – This service costs £222 (or £235 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport)
One week fast track – £178 for an adult passport (or £191 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport), or £145 for a child passport (or £158 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport)
The pound has strengthened against most currencies in the last year, giving families more spending power if they’re heading overseas. Make sure you’re heading to one that offers good deals
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New York will cost you(Image: Getty)
The world’s biggest rip-off destinations and those bucketlist spots perfect for a bargain break have been revealed.
When it comes to holidays, nothing sours the poolside mojito quicker than the feeling that your cash is disappearing too quickly.
Thankfully, the Post Office has looked into where in the world the British pound delivers the most value for money this year. We’ve put the biggest bargain cities and outrageous rip-offs resorts on an interactive map, so you can book armed with all of the facts.
If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck, then head to the Algarve.
The Portugese coastal resort is a huge favourite with Brits, who take advantage of cheap, regular flights from across the UK to flock to the southern region en-masse each summer.
It’s basket of holiday goodies cost £58.95, 1.6 per cent less than in 2024. This is due to the rock-bottom cost of meals and drinks. The average cost of a three-course meal for two with wine in Albufeira weighed in at £40.33 – the lowest recorded across the 47 destinations surveyed (figure 9) and one third the cost in New York (£128.27).
The Algarve is one of 19 resorts or cities that got cheaper this year than last, according to Post Office research. Others to do so include Delhi, India; Phuket, Thailand; Spain’s Costa del Sol and Prague in the Czech Republic.
If you’re keen to stay in Europe, then Prague is a good bet. Far more than just stag-dos and strip clubs, the former Soviet city is enriched by a huge amount of history, art, and music.
The Czech capital’s basket of holiday goods cost £75.92 this year, a significant price fall of over 20 per cent compared to 2024.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the biggest deals can be found a little further away from the UK, although bargain-hungry holidaymakers will have to factor in the cost of getting to these destinations when choosing where to go.
The Algarve came out on top
Cape Town in South Africa is the second cheapest destination looked at this year, with a basket of essentials costing £59.84. This is a great destination for Southern Hemisphere wine buffs as a glass of grape costs just £2.07; a fifth of the price it’ll set you back in New York.
Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, has been massively popular with Brits over the past year, thanks to the very favourable exchange rate.
A glass of wine and a bottle of beer can be purchased there for the equivalent of just over a fiver.
One destination to keep an eye on is Delhi. At £69.52, prices in the Indian city have dropped 10.7 per cent. Although alcohol prices there are a little on the steep side, soft drinks, water and food won’t lighten your wallet too much.
At the other end of the scale, New York is the most expensive of 47 destinations surveyed, with a barometer total of £167.85 – a rise of 15.6 per cent year-on-year. Not only will you have to spend upwards of £7 for a beer in the Big Apple, you’ll be expected to tip generously on top of that.
The eye-watering continues in Hawaii, the second most expensive destination on the list and the home of £9.18 insect repellent, and in Nice, France. Head to the French city, and you’ll find yourself being stingy with the suncream, as a bottle costs close to £17.
Marmaris offered mid-tier bang for buck(Image: Getty Images)
While the world has been in turmoil since Donald Trump returned to the White House (and perhaps was before), sterling remains strong against many other currencies.
Over three-quarters of Post Office’s top 30 currencies – including the euro and most other European currencies – have
weakened since last March. This could provide holidaymakers with a big incentive to choose destinations where sterling will provide more ‘bang for their buck.
Appetite for traveling remains high and is growing. Three-in-five (60 per cent) of Brits surveyed about their holiday plans for the coming year told Post Office Travel Money that they will be travelling abroad – up from 51 per cent who were asked the same question a year ago.
Almost three-quarters (73 per cent) of them will holiday in Europe and most (95 per cent) will be making a repeat journey to a European destination.
Although a big majority are planning to get away this year, most share a desire to keep things as cheap and cheerful as possible.
Travelling away from busy periods is regarded as the best way to make travelling abroad more affordable, with two-in-five holidaymakers prepared to swap peak season travel for cheaper times of the year.
More than a quarter of those questioned say they will book cheaper accommodation (27 per cent), take fewer holidays (27 per cent) or go to a destination that costs less (26 per cent).
The strength of the pound against most other currencies has boosted Brits’ spending power when they head abroad this summer, research had found, in some cases by a lot
Brits head to Turkey and elsewhere this summer are winners from exchange rates changes(Image: Getty Images)
Millions of Brits planning foreign holidays this summer will be quids in thanks to the pound’s strength, a recent report has found.
Sterling’s gain against a host of currencies has boosted families’ spending power – in some cases by a lot. For instance, the pound’s 30% rise against the lira in the past year means holidaymakers jetting to Turkey will have a bumper £116 more to spend for every £500. That is equivalent to a couple of three course meals for two, with wine, in the Turkish resort of Marmaris, plus four beers. Those considering a long-haul break to Mexico will have almost £57 per £500 extra thanks to a near 13% increase against the peso, according to the Post Office Travel Money’s Holiday Spending Report.
Egypt is among the popular destinations were Brits get more bang for their buck (Image: Getty Images)
It reveals that the UK pound is stronger than a year ago against 25 of the 30 currencies and has gained ground against 80% of them since March. Others in the top 10 list of spending power gainers include Egypt, Australia, and New Zealand.
Brits thinking of a trip to the States will also get more bang for their buck thanks to sterling’s 6.6% rise against the US dollar, meaning they would have almost £31 per £500 more to spend than this time last year. Despite that, many people are seemingly having second thoughts about going on holiday to the USA. The main concern is that US President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs will mean higher prices – cited by 78% of those polled – rather than his politics in general.
Brits heading to Cancun and other destinations in Mexico have 13% more spending power this summer(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Those heading to Europe will also be better off, though not by so much. Sterling is just 0.9% up against the euro year-on-year, meaning Brits have £4.50 per £500 more spending power across the pond than last summer.
The Post Office report also found a sharp rise in the number of people planning trips abroad. Two-thirds of those surveyed said they intend to take a foreign holiday this year , with more than half having already booked their trip. That is despite growing concerns voiced by nine-in-ten of them about whether they have enough money to afford the trip. Over three-quarters said exchange rates were a big concern for them.
When it came to people’s views on the best value destinations, Brit-favourite Spain came top, followed by Turkey, Thailand, Portugal, Greece and Italy. When it came to their trip abroad, 82% of holidaymakers said they had set a budget averaging £377, but most admitted overspending.
Nearly eight out of 10 people in a survey say they are put off holidaying in America because of tariff-triggered price rises(Image: Getty)
Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at the Post Office, which accounts for one-in-four UK foreign exchange transactions, said: “This year’s holiday spending research again demonstrates that holidaymakers don’t always set a realistic budget and overspend by large amounts as a result. It’s great to hear that holidaymakers are already planning to budget more for their holidays this year, to avoid coming unstuck when they arrive at their destination.”
The report also found that many holidaymakers are paying over the odds for transactions abroad. While it advisable to carry some cash overseas, one-in-five in the survey said relied solely on plastic to pay for purchases, and just over a quarter changed less than £100 into foreign currency.
As a consequence, holidaymakers can into difficulties. From the poll, 7% said they had tried to pay a restaurant, shop or bar bill with a credit card, only to find that it was not accepted.
More than one-in-ten also fell foul of a practice known as Dynamic Currency Conversion by agreeing to pay on their card in sterling rather than local currency, incurring unnecessary transaction charges as a result.
Ms Plunkett said: “Paying on a debit or credit card may seem like a convenient way to pay for things while abroad, but our research suggests that this can be a costly practice. Far too many holidaymakers told us that they paid significantly more than they anticipated because of the transaction charges made for using credit and debit cards at an overseas ATM.”
Travel company Great Little Escapes has been removed from the ATOL scheme and ceased trading, leaving Brits with holidays booked through the firm in chaos
16:02, 17 Jun 2025Updated 16:32, 17 Jun 2025
Travel company Great Little Escapes has been removed from the ATOL scheme and ceased trading(Image: PA)
British holidaymakers are faced with turmoil as bookings fall through following Great Little Escapes being stripped of its ATOL scheme membership and halting its operations.
The Berkshire-based firm touted itself as a provider of the ‘best cheap breaks in the UK’, focusing on city breaks, while Your Holidays boasted a varied offering, including deals for hen and stag dos, LGBT getaways and bespoke packages.
Falling into financial difficulty, the company’s latest figures reveal a near £77,000 loss last year and a hefty £186,000 deficit reported for 2023, says TTG, the travel industry’s news outlet.
Finding out your holiday company has gone bust can be a nightmare for travellers looking to jet off for a much-needed break(Image: Getty)
In the UK, it’s mandatory for any business selling holidays and flights to possess an ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing), providing a safety net for consumers’ finances. The ATOL protection ensures that customers can either continue their planned trip or claim a full refund if a travel operator collapses, reports Wales Online.
Following the company’s sudden downfall, ATOL stated they are “currently collating information from the company” and will issue guidance promptly.
But now hundreds of summer breaks are in jeopardy and holidaymakers are desperate for clarity.
The authority also issued explicit guidance for associated travel agents, noting: “If you are a travel agent of Great Little Escapes LLP and you are currently holding consumer payments which you have not yet paid to Great Little Escapes LLP, you must not use these funds to refund consumers until you have received instructions from the Air Travel Trust.”
The collapse of this latest travel agency is sure to unsettle those thrifty holiday-seekers keen on saving on their bookings to have more spending money for beachside cocktails and souvenirs during their getaway.
What to do if your holiday company goes bankrupt
So, what’s the next step if your travel firm goes under? What rights do you have, and how can you reclaim your hard-earned cash?
Discovering that your holiday provider has folded is every traveller’s worst fear, especially when you’re yearning for that essential escape. Thankfully, various laws and regulations exist to aid you in getting a refund should things take a turn for the worse.
Your first port of call should be to touch base with your travel agent if you arranged your trip through them, to confirm your booking is still valid.
All providers offering services within the EU are bound by consumer protection legislation. According to the European Consumer Centres Network: “If you book a holiday, rental car, accommodation or a flight in the EU, Norway or Iceland and run into problems, rest assured that consumer rights are in place to support you.
“If your flight is cancelled, your baggage is lost, your cruise doesn’t go smoothly, or you miss your train connection, EU legislation will ensure you obtain redress.”
In the UK, travel companies that provide packages, including a flight, and sell them to customers must protect your money through the ATOL scheme.
As the Post Office notes, this means that if you booked your overseas holiday with an ATOL member and it goes bust before you travel, you can apply to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for a full refund. If you’re already on holiday when the company goes bankrupt, the CAA will arrange for you to return home.
ABTA, the Association of British Travel Agents, also provides financial protection for UK consumers who book holidays through ABTA members. This protection ensures that consumers receive refunds or assistance if their travel company goes out of business.
Package holidays and agency booking can also offer travellers extra reassurance and customer service. “Booking through a professional agent gives you the peace of mind that you are protected in the event of any changes to your travel,” said Sarah Davies, a travel advisor from Life Begins with Travel. “Even if just to have someone on the end of the phone to guide you through the process.”
Davies explained that many online travel companies weren’t members of ABTA, though, so it was important to ensure you choose a company with both ABTA and ATOL protection “so you don’t end up out of pocket and that you’re well looked after.”
Look for the ATOL logo when booking, and you should receive an ATOL certificate immediately after booking. You can also check a company’s ATOL status on the CAA website.
If you can’t reach the travel company, contact your airline and accommodation provider directly to confirm your booking and check that they’ve received your payment. If everything checks out, you should be all set to go on your hols.
However, if the booking doesn’t exist or you can’t get through to those companies, possibly because they’ve gone out of business, check your paperwork to determine whether you’ve ABTA or ATOL protection.
Making a claim
The Civil Aviation Authority notes that the refund process is quite straightforward. ATOL-protected consumers complete an ATOL Claim Form, and it then requests the documentation from the ATOL holder issued to the customer.
They will request evidence of payment to the ATOL holder or overseas supplier, depending on your claim type.
In some cases where you’ve paid by credit card, they may direct you to contact your card issuer for a refund. For more details, visit their website.
How to make a claim
Check your ATOL certificate or invoice to confirm that the trip was ATOL-protected and lists the ATOL holder.
Visit the CAA ATOL Claims Portal to submit your case as the Lead Passenger
You’ll need to provide an ATOL certificate/reference, booking and payment details, receipts for any extra costs
The CAA then processes the claim and may seek reimbursement through a credit card provider (Section 75), in some cases.
Will Travel insurance cover me?
Travel insurance doesn’t usually cover you if your holiday company goes bust — but some policies do include cover for things like “end supplier failure” or “scheduled airline failure.” It’s definitely worth having a quick look at the fine print to see if you’re protected.
Do I have Credit card protection?
If you haven’t got travel insurance in place at the point when your holiday company goes bust, you may be able to claim back your money through your credit card company.
To be eligible, you need to have paid more than £100 for your holiday or flights and booked directly with the holiday company or airline.
Next steps
Do not apply for CAA claims before they publish details about a failed ATOL holder
If you’re overseas, the CAA will inform you of the repatriation plan.
Upon failure, the CAA list is updated; find it on the ATOL portal .
Gather all documents: receipts, bookings, and communications; this will support your claim
At a glance:
If a travel company with an ATOL goes bust:
You’ll get a refund if you haven’t travelled yet.
If you’re already abroad, ATOL ensures you’re not stranded and helps bring you home.
It applies to package holidays and some flight-only deals sold by UK companies.
If something goes wrong:
First, go to the travel company.
If unresolved, and it’s financial or related to collapse, go to ATOL via the CAA.
For complaints not involving insolvency (e.g. poor service), escalate to an ombudsman or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) body.
As many of us look at jetting away for some sunshine on our summer holidays, it’s important to check our passports have the necessary time left on them before we travel
Travellers are being urged to check their passport before heading to the airport (Image: Getty Images/Stock Image)
Holidaymakers planning a trip abroad are being urged to check a specific detail on their passports or risk being turned away at the airport. Neglecting this crucial step could potentially throw a huge spanner in their travel plans.
There are many things to keep in mind when gearing up for a trip. From packing clothes and toiletries to sorting out travel insurance and visas, it can feel like a daunting checklist of tasks to tick off.
In addition, it’s important to note that different countries have unique rules regarding passport validity. The Post Office advises on its website: “Some countries might ask that your passport’s valid for your whole time away and even a bit longer, sometimes up to six months.
“If you don’t check these rules, you could run into problems, like not being able to board your flight or being denied entry when you land.”
Catching a flight can be stressful, don’t let your passport hold you up(Image: Erlon Silva – TRI Digital via Getty Images)
To play it safe, make sure your passport has at least an extra six months left from the date of your holiday, as many destinations require at least half a year’s leeway, the Daily Record reports.
To find your passport expiry date, look at the document’s data page, which also includes your photo, date of birth, and passport number.
Passport validity rules
Before setting off on your journey, confirm the requirements for the destination you’re heading to. Here are some examples of the rules in different countries:
For those planning to travel to the United States, it’s crucial that your passport remains valid for the entire duration of your stay, although having an extra six months’ validity is advised to avoid potential complications
If you’re bound for Australia, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date you enter the country
For travel to New Zealand, passports must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date
Europe
In most European countries, your passport must be valid for at least three months. But for British citizens visiting the EU and Schengen countries, there’s an extra rule: your passport mustn’t be more than 10 years old.
The Post Office clarifies: “Passports issued after 2018 are valid for exactly 10 years. But if your passport was issued before September 2018, it might be valid for up to 10 years and nine months.
“This is because, before 2018, the passport office would add up to nine extra months from your old passport to your new one. This means some people have passports that haven’t officially expired and are still valid for travel worldwide.
“The exception is travel in Europe, where passports must be less than 10 years old.”
To travel to Europe and Schengen countries, your passport must meet the following conditions:
Issued less than 10 years before your departure date
Valid for at least three months after your planned return date
All the relevant information for travel to the EU and Schengen countries can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Check your passport before jetting away(Image: clubfoto via Getty Images)
If your passport is nearing its expiry date
Head over to GOV.UK to apply for a new passport if yours has run out or won’t last as long as you need it to. Renewing or replacing your passport online will cost £94.50, or £107 if you opt for the paper form route.
Usually, you’ll have your new passport within two weeks, but if you’re in a rush, faster services are available for an additional fee.
If your passport is deemed damaged, it will also require replacement. The HM Passport Office will classify your passport as damaged if:
You cannot read any of your details
Any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing
There are holes, cuts or rips in the cover
The cover is coming away
There are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage)
A poll of 2,000 travellers found three in 10 felt they have often paid more for something on holiday because they were a tourist
Brits have found themselves overpaying for a variety of things on holiday(Image: Getty Images)
Holidaymakers have shared some of the priciest purchases they have unintentionally made while abroad. A survey of 2,000 travellers revealed that three in 10 felt they had often been charged more for items on holiday due to their tourist status. One unlucky holidaymaker shelled out £30 for a single glass of Coca-Cola in Rome, while another unsuspectingly bought a T-shirt for £80, believing it was only £10.
Other surprising expenses reported by respondents included paying a staggering £48 for a single shot of whiskey. Another person spent £25 on a taxi ride in Amsterdam, only to discover their destination was less than a mile away.
One traveller paid almost £50 for a drink(Image: Getty Images)
The study, conducted by the Post Office, indicated that travellers frequently struggle with ‘currency confusion’ – becoming muddled about the value of money ‘in pounds’ when they are away. This has resulted in a quarter of people paying more than they anticipated for an item.
The most common currency conversion for Brits, changing to euros, also baffled respondents, with nearly a third unsure of how much £5 would equate to in Euros. Moreover, 40% were in the dark about the conversion rate for dollars.
According to the survey, four out of ten try to calculate local currency rates in their heads, while 6% will ask someone nearby and then take their word for it.
Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at Post Office, commented: “Our research reveals many travellers overestimate their ability to mentally convert currencies on the go, and that can lead to overspending. We wanted to highlight how easily confusion around exchange rates can impact holiday budgets – no one wants to waste time abroad worrying about money. “
The study was commissioned to promote the Post Office’s Travel Money Card, as well as their Travel App which allows holidaymakers to check exchange rates and monitor spending in real time.
Currently, 17% rely on conversion apps to work out how much they are spending. “It’s surprising that only 19% of travellers use a prepaid travel card for their spending abroad when it can allow travellers to lock in a good rate before travelling,” Laura said.
Meanwhile, 49% utilise a separate card not connected to their primary bank account for overseas spending in an effort to safeguard their ‘main funds’ from fraudsters or thieves.
Laura further stated: “Nothing disrupts a holiday like a financial mishap. Keeping your travel money separate from your main account is a smart move to give you greater control, clearer visibility of what you’re spending.
“Whether you’re budgeting carefully or just want to avoid mixing travel purchases with everyday costs, this small step can make a big difference to your trip.”
Mark Wildblood, the founder of Hear Our Voice – the choir made up of people impacted by the Post Office scandal – says the initiative has been ‘therapeutic’ after a battle with depression.
The founder of the Post Office choir, who appeared on britain’s Got Talent earlier this year, says the show was ‘therapeutic’ for him(Image: Dymond/TalkbackThames/Shutterstock)
Hear Our Voice, the choir made up of people affected by the Post Office scandal which placed seventh in the recent series of Britain’s Got Talent, are releasing a new charity single alongside band Will & The People.
The single, Falling Down, is a rendition of the song they performed in their audition for Britain’s Got Talent. And choir founder Mark Wildblood says the initiative has been ‘life changing’ for him, admitting the talent show stint has made a significant impact on his mental health.
“I personally have found it very therapeutic,” said Mark. “I was on antidepressants prescribed by my doctor for a long long time and I spoke to them very early this year and I said, ‘Look [the choir] is really starting to make me feel good and I wouldn’t mind trying to go without [the antidepressants].
The choir made it to seventh place on the talent show(Image: Dymond/TalkbackThames/Shutterstock)
“So, at the recommendation of doctors I was told it’s ok to give it a go and I haven’t been back on them since,” he says of the choir’s impact.
Continuing that it has given him ‘purpose’ following dark days, Mark shared, “It’s not difficult to get caught up in dwelling on all of the negatives. So, to be surrounded by the same people that you talk to about it every day and that are seeing the positives as well, I think we’ve done a really really positive thing and a lot of that is thanks to BGT.”
While Mark says the choir has meant he’s managed to let go of ‘anger’ he was holding onto against the post office, he confirms that the ‘concern’ remains. “My concern for the procedure is not eliminated. We still have to make sure that we get closure and closure can only come with compensation.”
Mark was a sub-postmaster at Upton Post Office before he was suspended from the role as one of the thousands of people impacted by the Post Office scandal. The scandal saw the wrongful prosecution of sub-postmasters and postmistresses by the Post Office, who accused them of theft, fraud, and false accounting due to faulty data from the Horizon IT system used by the company.
Despite the choir and the ITV show, Mr Bates vs The Post Office, raising awareness of the scandal, Mark says there is still much more to be done
He founded the choir in May 2024, inviting others impacted by the scandal to take part and raise money for the cause, alongside awareness. As the former tour manager for Will and the People, Mark then enlisted lead singer Will Rendle to get involved as he fronted the act on Britain’s Got Talent.
And detailing how the choir has become a family dynamic, Mark said, “W e always say to each other that we have become family now. The choir is spread out throughout the country and so BGT has given us the opportunity to actually meet five times in a very short space of time and be together.”
Many of the victims are still awaiting compensation from the Post Office, with Mark admitting that despite the success of their campaigning and the recent TV series; Mr Bates vs The Post Office, there’s still a long way to go.
It comes as Simon Recaldin, a Post Office boss who has been backing compensation for the scandal victims, has left his position in the company. Simon is thought to have opted for voluntary redundancy, a move which comes amid the increased pressure on the company to pay victims. Previously, the government announced that those who have had convictions overturned are eligible for £600,000, with hundreds still waiting for the compensation.
“Scandals like these have a commonality where the bureaucracy of closure takes so long that many people pass away by the time that the situations are resolved – I just hope that we don’t get into that situation,” says Mark of those yet to be paid. “We’ve already lost a lot of people in the Post Office scandal and we can’t afford to lose more without getting a speed up, so I would say to those in power, please change the system. It’ll be better for everyone all round and cost a lot less money if they just do it now as it should be,” pleaded Mark.
With fellow choir member Maria Lockwood joking that the unit would be keen to front the Glastonbury stage this summer, Mark says he isn’t opposed to the idea. “We wouldn’t say no to anything where we had the opportunity to get together in person again and Glastonbury would be amazing, that would be phenomenal.”
Falling Down, the single by Hear Our Voice choir and Will and The People, is available on all platforms from tomorrow, 10 June. 100% of profits after costs from the single are going to the Horizon Scandal Fund and Lost Chances—two organisations supporting victims and their families.
