UK-based Diamond Shortbreak Holidays has ceased trading due to financial difficulties.

As a result of the decision all holidays booked with the organisation are to be cancelled.

However, the company’s non-flight based package holidays, such as coach or rail trips, are protected through ABTA.

In a statement ABTA said: “These kind of trips formed the majority of the company’s business, and customers with one of these bookings are advised to go to abta.com where they can start the process of claiming a refund.”

ABTA estimates almost 7,000 forward bookings are protected, comprising approximately 16,000 passengers.

The statement added: “Everyone booked on packages will get a refund on the money they have paid, in some cases this may be through their bank or credit card company and we will give them a letter, which will make any claim straightforward.”

Customers who need more help can contact the ABTA claims team on 0203 758 8743.