A TOTAL of 140 cases of holiday fraud were made to Sussex Police last year.

It has been revealed that 6,640 reports of holiday fraud were made to Action Fraud last year with holiday makers losing a combined total of £12.3 million.

Of these, 140 cases were reported to Sussex Police, with people losing a combined total of £193,308.00 to holiday fraud, or on average £1,380.77 per person.

The UK Civil Aviation Authority, which runs the Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (ATOL) scheme, is urging consumers to use its ‘Check an ATOL’ tool to make sure their holiday provider has an ATOL Licence.

Michael Budge, head of ATOL, said: “In the run up to Black Friday, we are encouraging people to research thoroughly before booking their next holiday, as there can be a risk of getting caught out by hidden costs and extras, or potentially booking with fraudulent companies.

 “We urge consumers to check for ATOL protection, book by credit card where possible and take out travel insurance to offer layers of financial protection for their next package trip.”