TUI Travel has reported a nine per cent increase in bookings at its UK operations as poor winter weather drives Brits to book holidays earlier.

TUI also reported higher margins on those holidays which were booked, with momentum also carried into the summer season.

In total, unique holiday bookings in the UK, Nordics and Germany increased by 15, 12 and nine per cent year-on-year respectively for summer 2013 when compared to last year.

Peter Long, chief executive of TUI Travel PLC, commented: “We have a clear roadmap for growth built upon a deep understanding of our industry and customers.

“Our strong operational performance over winter means we will deliver reduced winter losses.

“This very strong trading has continued into summer 2013, leaving us well placed to achieve a full-year performance towards the upper end of our growth targets.”