Short breaks operator shuts down

Bristol-based tour operator Brilliant Weekends has ceased trading.

An announcement on its website said its offices, in the city's Hotwell Road, had closed.

The company, which specialises in short breaks including stag and hen weekends, apologised to its customers for the "distress and inconvenience caused".

People who booked a flight-inclusive package covered by an ATOL license have been advised to contact the Civil Aviation Authority for advice.

Customers who had booked flights directly with the airline and not as part of a complete package were being told they are not covered by a protection scheme and should refer to their credit card company.