MILLIONS of people who have cancelled holiday plans on account of the coronavirus pandemic are being urged to re-book breaks once it is safe to do so.

The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) ­— which represents many rural tourism businesses ­on the Isle of Wight — is asking the public to support rural tourism.

It says choosing a ‘staycation’ is not only greener, but is a great way to support the local economy.

Rural tourism is worth £18.5 billion a year to the economy, and employs as many as 600,000 people ­— yet, almost overnight, many businesses have shut down for an unknown period of time, which is having crippling impact on the industry.

CLA vice president, Victoria Vyvyan said: “When re-booking their holidays, we are asking people to consider staying in the great British countryside to support local businesses.

"The hard truth is that thousands of businesses, who are extremely welcoming to their guests, will go bust without their support.

“Choosing a staycation not only helps out small businesses up and down the country, but is also a great way to lower your carbon footprint."