Pictured above: Russell Coleridge from Warwick outdoor
shop Escape 2
Uncertainty over whether the volcanic ash cloud will hold up
flights over the coming months is prompting more people to remain
in England for their summer holidays - or so latest buying habits
would show.
Warwick trekking, climbing and camping specialist Escape 2 is
recording a boom in UK related purchases as holidaymakers decide to
stay at home rather than risk being held up at an airport over the
summer. And a number of people calling in to check out overseas
equipment
Alan Kinch and Russell Coleridge who run the Emscote Road shop
say the usual seasonal rush of people wanting to buy kit for
overseas camping and trekking breaks has been replaced by a demand
for equipment more suited to trips in this country - and they're
busy restocking the shop with extra England friendly equipment
rather than supplies for more exotic locations.
"Normally at this time of year we see a steep rise in the number
of people looking for tents and equipment for the great outdoors
ready for a summer of camping in places like the Lake District,
North and South Wales and coastal paths.
"We have the usual number of people we would expect at this time
of year coming in for overseas travel orientated things, but while
normally they would make a purchase straight away, many seem to be
investigating what's available but not yet committing as they're
unsure of the overseas travel situation.
"Whether this is down to the ash cloud and people not wanting to
face the frustration and uncertainty of being held up at airports,
problems with the euro, a greener approach to travel or a
continuation of the belt tightening brought on by the economic
situation I don't know. But we suspect the ash cloud is playing a
major part in this change in buying trends," said Russell.
"Another clue is the rise in sales of trousers with zip off
legs. We're ordering in plenty more as they've been so popular this
year. England is a prime location in which to wear trousers
which can switch from long to short in seconds because of our
varied weather. People wanting to camp overseas are likely to be
going to warmer climes and will just be after shorts."