HOLIDAYMAKERS across East Lancashire are being told to put their travel plans on hold 'indefinitely', as the coronavirus crisis continues.

After initially urging people not to travel abroad for 30 days, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has now issued new advice, extending the postponement period, with no end date in sight for when it will be lifted.

The latest news means that for anyone in East Lancashire who had a holiday booked - it has now effectively been cancelled.

Travel firms and airlines are expected to get in touch with those who've booked flights and holidays in the coming days in order to discuss the options available.

These may include rebooking a trip to take place at a later date, or taking advantage of a voucher or credit scheme, something that is being offered by lots of travel firms.

Those not wishing to take those options are entitled to request a refund if they want their money back. According to the FCO, people who are due to travel imminently have been prioritised by travel firms.

Many companies have reported being flooded with calls in recent days, so if people are trying to get in touch, it may take various attempts before they get through.

A statement on the FCO website in relation to 'essential travel' says: "Sometimes we say that only essential travel is advised. Whether travel is essential or not is your own decision.

"You may have urgent family or business commitments to attend to. Circumstances differ from person to person. Only you can make an informed decision based on the risks."

The updated advice from the FCO comes two weeks after the UK went into lockdown, with people only allowed to leave home to: exercise once a day, shop for food, essentials and medicine, and to travel to and from work if a 'key worker' or work can't be completed at home.