MOST tour operators have now cancelled tours to the Isle of Wight until the end of April, as the effects of the coronavirus epidemic spread.

Visit Isle of Wight did not comment on fears expressed by some County Press readers that some tours are still operating on the Island. They said it was a matter for tour operators.

It has been suggested that visitors could spread the virus and put pressure on local services and NHS resources.

Most tour operators have now suspended their trips.

The County Press contacted several tour operators.

David Urquhart Travel said: “We have taken the difficult decision to cancel all departures for coach holidays and close Hart Hotels between until April 30. We will be actively contacting all customers affected, in the order of their departure date, to discuss any alternative travel arrangements.”

Isle of Wight Tours said they have spoken to all customers, offering free transfers and doing as much as they can to help people. "We are rearranging holidays, but at the moment the office and call centre remains open. All tours, dance holidays, events and reunions have been postponed. Our customers have been very supportive."

National Holidays and Caledonian Travel said: “Further to the government's ongoing announcements we will be unable to operate any holidays from March 18, up to and including April 30 and so will be postponing or cancelling these departures. If you have a booking with us we will be contacting you directly.”

Just Go Holidays said: “We have decided to suspend UK and European coach tour operations for all tours departing from today until April 18. If you are travelling with us during this suspension period we will be calling you in date order of your tour departure to re-arrange your holiday.”

Shearings said: “We are therefore sorry to inform you that we are unable to operate our coach holidays and self drive breaks, up to and including April 30. We will call you in date departure order, to rearrange your holiday, as we have some urgency around tours that were due to depart this Friday.”

Alfa Travel said: “We will be cancelling all holidays departing up to the end of April 2020.”

Meanwhile, managing director of Visit Isle of Wight, Will Myles, called the current situation “unlike anything that has been encountered before” and urged tourism providers to continue to update him.

Mr Myles, said: “We are being asked questions that at no time did anyone envisage we would ever be asked: How can I keep my business going? How will I pay my staff? What can I do to keep my attraction alive?

“I am speaking to the Government bodies, our MP and our local council, while seeking advice from national tourism and trade bodies.

“We are in regular contact with our Island ferry and transport providers to ensure that we are all aligned with our approach.”