ONE of Britain's biggest tour operators axed thousands of holidays in the Dominican Republic today amid concerns about hygiene.

Rossendale-based Airtours Holidays decided not to use four hotels there after worries that too many sunseekers have been struck down with "holiday tummy".

More than a quarter of a million holidaymakers visited the Caribbean resort last year, but now thousands face disruption as the company cancel 10,000 holidays.

Airtours' director of UK Operations Anita McErlean said: "None of the illnesses reported has been notifiable, but our first concern must always be the health, safety and enjoyment of our customers.

"Quite simply, the infrastructure of the island has not kept pace with the growth of tourism and despite assurances that health and hygiene standards would be met, this has not always been achieved.

"We decided to take the lead in order to safeguard the health of our customers. We are employing health experts, including microbiologists, to carry out continuous hygiene checks."

Hotels removed from the Airtours' Far and Away brochure are Cayo Levantado, Gran Bahia, La Esplanada and Punta Garza.

Holidaymakers already booked to go to these hotels will be offered alternative accommodation in other approved hotels on the island, an alternative holiday or a full refund. The company have also set up a helpline for customers who are due to go to the Dominican Republic and they can call on 01706 909050.

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