Margate the new Marbella?

Britons are choosing to holiday at home rather than travel abroad because they are concerned about the damage they are doing to the environment, according to a new study.

Research by the Post Office found that 13 per cent of respondents are planning domestic breaks rather than jetting abroad for their holidays because it is more environmentally friendly.

A third of those surveyed said that Britain has a lot to offer its holidaymakers, with 39 per cent citing advantages of UK breaks over foreign holidays.

"People are now more than ever making important lifestyle decisions based on their knowledge and understanding of environmental issues. As a result, many travellers are planning to make the most of the UK's holiday spots," commented Kevin McAdam, head of travel at the Post Office.

He added: "Our advice is that the travel industry will have to wake up to the fact that Margate could be the new Marbella."