The outbreak has had a "devastating effect" on the caravan industry leading to the cancellation of rallies and closure of sites, the Caravan Club said.

Bosses said they had fully complied with ministry guidelines with a "heavy heart" but conceded the disease was having a serious drain on its finances.

A statement by the Caravan Club said many of its independently owned smaller sites would be badly affected and it could be "the last straw" for its certificated locations.

l It is business as usual at Robsons Caravans, in Wolsingham, where trade has plummeted since the start of the crisis. Staff are there today and tomorrow