Bosses at Park Hall Hotel at Charnock Richard, near Chorley, say they have noticed a new trend developing with a huge rise in the number of people who want to book and stay immediately.

Recently, on one day alone, 30 people rang to book into the hotel that night. And to respond to the trend the hotel – part of the Camelot theme park – is offering last minute bookers an overnight kit with essential toiletries.

It is thought the change is linked to the popularity of a new holiday concept called "staycations", where people stay close to home for a break.

With an uncertain economy and rising fuel prices many people are choosing shorter trips to local attractions rather than long costly drives and flights. It seems that families are deciding on the day what they want to do rather than in advance.

Jeanette Marshall, Park Hall's marketing manager, says it is a big change in the hotel business: "The pattern of booking has been very different this year. We have never had so many enquiries from people ringing on the day and wanting to stay that night.

"It looks as though people have literally got the car loaded up in the morning and are ready to go and seize the moment.
"Many guests, however, are turning up without a few essentials. We thought we had better help so we are offering an overnight kit packed with a dressing gown, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor and shaving foam so a last minute break is as stress free as possible."

Jeanette added that it is a big change in the way the hotel does business.
"We want to make sure we are providing what our clients want.
"I think everyone is appreciating the attractions closer to home now and as a family friendly hotel in beautiful grounds next to our theme park, Camelot, we are ideal for a stress-free and affordable break."