A Cumbrian travel agent is celebrating the government’s confirmation on the swap to cheaper lateral flow tests.

From October 24, the only testing requirement for fully vaccinated people entering England will be a single lateral flow test within 48 hours of arrival.

The Travel Team in Brampton is relieved that the easing of regulations will bring some reprieve to both passengers and the travel industry.

Business owner Liz Beaty is delighted to see a positive shift after a difficult 18 months with the pandemic and international holidays having been off the agenda for most.

She said: “Finally there is some light at the end of the tunnel for the travel industry after months of uncertainty with the changes to travel rules and the worry of quarantine when you come back into the UK.

“There has been a lot of hesitation and anxiety for people with testing and entry requirements.

"With the removal of most countries from the UK government’s Red List, there are now so many destinations that you can travel to and there is definitely a huge increase in customer confidence to book a holiday now.

“Hopefully with the new announcement that most travellers will just be able to take a lateral flow test on their return now will increase people wanting to get away for some winter sunshine”

The change will only apply to fully-vaccinated travellers, those who are not double jabbed must continue to use PCR tests.

While higher-priced PCR tests sold by private providers has attracted criticism, Liz has helped support travellers get access to the best-value options.

The tests are supplied by Eurofins who offer a PCR Fit to Fly for under £45 and a Day 2 PCR for £38.90.

Lateral flow tests will be offered soon in addition to the PCRs.

Liz, who has run her independent travel agency in Front Street for 34 years, said: “It has been great that we have been able to offer the testing locally and help people pay a fair price.

"The service is not only available to our own customers but to anyone who wants it.

“Originally there were limited options available so providers had a captive audience and the only option was paying ridiculous amounts.

"We heard of people paying more than £120 each.

“From my own personal experience, I found the testing very quick and easy to do, the appointment date and time was booked online, the appointment was a quick nasal swab, the test was sent off the same day and the results were emailed to me during the night."

For more information, contact the Travel Team at 016977 2929.