Blackpool tourism may benefit from 'Sortum' effect

With a pattern of calm, warm weather at the end of summer in recent years, online booking firm Eviivo says families have taken advantage to book B&Bs for a late getaway.

It said it had seen a rise in bookings at seaside resorts in “Sortumn”, Britain’s increasingly predictable fifth season, from September to November.

Nationwide bookings for the period were up 7.5 per cent, with south coast areas higher.

Blackpool, it said, had seen a rise of 4.63 per cent.

Highest growth was in the south, with Penzance up 32 per cent, Torquay 29 per cent and Bournemouth 23 per cent.

Tom Messett, director at Eviivo said: “The reliable bump up in temperature in late September and early October is attracting more and more families to Britain’s bed and breakfasts. The low, golden light, balmy not-too-hot temperatures, relatively warm sea and comparative peace and quiet are an attractive combination for holidaymakers.”

He said sea temperatures in the UK tend to remain above average until then end of October, with some areas having their highest temperatures in September. Claire Smith, from the Blackpool hoteliers association Stay Blackpool , pictured,said bookings were generally strong for the last part of the season.

She said: “We had a bit of a shaky start for some reason but bookings have really picked up and we are looking really good going forwards.

“Blackpool’s rise in the Eviivo survey probably appeared smaller than some other areas because we are already starting from a high rate.

“At that time of year we are already well booked up due to the Illuminations extending our season.”