NEWS that Covid tests are to be scrapped for the double-vaccinated arriving back in England after being abroad has been welcomed by a Bolton-based cruise operator.

The rule change comes into force after February 11 meaning those coming back from holiday will no longer have to take Covid tests.

James Cole, founder and managing director of Bolton’s Panache Cruises has welcomed the move.

He said: “This news will be a real boost for both the travel industry and consumer confidence, and should make way for a surge in sales.

“There is a huge pent-up demand for travel and momentum has been building steadily over the last few months.”

Alongside the Bolton company, holiday firms all around the country are reporting a surge in bookings for foreign travel after yesterday’s news.

Companies such as airline Jet2.com and tour operator Jet2holidays reported a “notable increase in demand for holidays and flights” after the new policy was revealed on Monday afternoon.

Traditional hotspots such as Spanish islands, mainland Spain, Italy and Portugal are all proving popular with customers.

The pandemic provided to be hugely challenging for Panache Cruises, which launched in the midst of lockdown, with the travel and tourism industry one of the hardest hit by the crisis.

But Panache Cruises, which employs more than 15 people, intends to create many more jobs over the coming years.

Mr Cole drew on more than 20 years of experience to steer the business through the crisis.

He has sold more than £1bn of sea-faring holidays over the course of his career.

Now he hopes that the easing of Covid rules in February means clear sailing ahead for the company.

Mr Cole said: “We are sure to encounter further challenges as we move forward, but Monday’s news is very much welcome.”