Thousands of Britons to be flown home amid political unrest

90-day state of emergency declared in African country

Thousands of UK holidaymakers in The Gambia are to be flown home amid growing concerns about political unrest in the west African nation.

Travel trade organisation Abta estimated there are around 2,000 people on package holidays in the country, with more than 1,500 others on flight-only trips.

The Foreign Office (FCO) is urging UK citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to the winter sun destination.

Thomas Cook triggered contingency plans to fly home its 985 package holiday customers, while about 2,500 flight-only travellers will be offered “the earliest possible flight availability” to return to the UK.

The Gambia Experience, part of Hampshire-based travel firm Serenity Holidays, said it is contacting its 225 package holiday customers and 109 flight-only customers to provide details of their repatriation options.

A 90-day state of emergency has been declared in The Gambia, where political deadlock has led to a “high” risk of military intervention and civil disturbance, the FCO said.

The international airport in the capital Banjul could be closed “at short notice”, according to the travel advice.

President Yahya Jammeh, has refused to hand over power after losing an election and on Tuesday banned “acts of disobedience” while urging security forces to maintain order.

A group of west African nations has threatened to take military action if Mr Jammeh does not cede power to his successor, Adama Barrow, this week.

Abta advised British tourists to contact their tour operator to arrange return flights, while anyone who has travelled independently should speak to their airline.

People with future bookings should contact their travel company to discuss the options.

A Thomas Cook spokesman said its staff were flying to the country yesterday to assist.

The Gambia is a popular winter sun destination.