Suntraps

Crooked Britain investigates fraudulent holiday clubs

Crooked Britain: Suntraps was broadcast on BBC Two on Tuesday 4 February 2003.

If you were called out of the blue and offered a free holiday you would probably reply: "Where's the catch?"

But when the offer is dressed up as a thank you for attending a market research session, you might well think: "What have I got to lose?"

Tempted by the prospect of a free holiday, many couples have attended these so-called "market research" sessions, only to discover that they are an extended sales pitch for a club that offers 60% off holidays and cruises.

Around £3,000 will buy a lifetime's membership to the club - but only if they part with their money there and then.

But later when people try to book a bargain holiday they discover they are no cheaper than on the high street - or simply don't exist.

In Suntraps reporter Mike Radford exposes how the companies behind holiday clubs operate and meets victims of the scam.

One woman, whose husband was seriously ill with cancer at the time, tells Crooked Britain, how she felt forced to sign a contract after being pressurised by sales staff for more than four hours.

Radford also tries to track down the elusive conmen behind the scam and soon learns why the victims find it impossible to retrieve their money.

Reporter: Mike Radford
Producer: Nicky Bolster
Series Producer: Fiona Campbell